An Adult Child’s Guide to What’s ‘Normal’
An Adult Child's Guide to What's 'Normal'" was penned by John and Linda Friel, a couple deeply engaged in the world of clinical psychology. Addressing the gaps in learning and behavior that individuals from dysfunctional backgrounds often experience, this book acts as a roadmap to understanding what constitutes "normal" social interactions and healthy lifestyles. John Friel, with a notable background as a psychologist, and Linda, his co-author and wife, have collectively impacted many lives with their writings and seminars, boasting over half a million book sales. Their work, deeply rooted in personal and professional insights into emotional healing, continues to serve as a crucial guide for those looking to navigate life's complexities stemming from less-than-ideal upbringings (Simon & Schuster Books) (Barnes & Noble).
Differentiation: What sets this book apart is its comprehensive approach to teaching life skills, particularly those not acquired in one's youth due to dysfunctional family dynamics. It uniquely combines the professional insights of its authors with actionable advice, creating a bridge between psychotherapy concepts and everyday challenges. This aspect makes it not just a read, but a practical toolkit for personal development and social navigation (Simon & Schuster Books).
How to Get Started: To begin implementing the lessons from "An Adult Child's Guide to What's 'Normal'," it's advisable to read through the book with a focus on chapters that most resonate with your personal experiences. This can be followed by daily reflective practices or journaling to integrate these insights into one's behavior and thought patterns.
How It Works: The book is designed for individual reading and is typically used as a self-help resource. Readers might spend varying amounts of time per day, from a few minutes for reflection to longer periods for in-depth understanding, depending on personal schedules and learning pace. The activities suggested often involve introspection, setting personal boundaries, and practical social skills exercises (Simon & Schuster Books) (Barnes & Noble).
Educational Content and Subjects Covered:
Understanding and setting healthy boundaries
Identifying and changing dysfunctional habits
Learning effective communication skills
Strategies for emotional regulation and self-care
What’s Good About It: Users appreciate the direct yet compassionate approach the Friels take in addressing sensitive issues. Many find the book incredibly insightful for understanding and rectifying the unseen impacts of their upbringing on their social interactions and personal development (Simon & Schuster Books) (Barnes & Noble).
What Could Be Improved: While the book is well-regarded, some readers find certain sections to be somewhat repetitive or wish for more in-depth case studies to see how the concepts apply in varied scenarios. More examples of "normal" responses in everyday situations could enhance the practicality of the guide (Simon & Schuster Books).
Advice from Parents: Parents who have used this book suggest approaching it with an open mind and patience. It's often recommended to revisit chapters as different life situations arise, using the book as a long-term reference point rather than a one-time read.
Who It’s an Ideal Fit For: This book is perfect for individuals who grew up in dysfunctional families and are seeking to understand and correct maladaptive behaviors. It is also valuable for new parents who want to ensure they are not passing on unhealthy patterns to their children (Simon & Schuster Books) (Barnes & Noble).
Who It’s Probably Not a Fit For: Individuals looking for a quick fix to deep-seated issues might find the pace and depth of the book challenging. It is less suited for those unwilling to engage in introspective and sometimes emotionally difficult work.
Grades: The book is best suited for adults.
Cost: The price of the book ranges from $12.99 for an eBook to $15.95 for a paperback edition (Simon & Schuster Books) (Barnes & Noble).
Ways to Get It: The book can be purchased online through major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. It is available in both eBook and paperback formats (Simon & Schuster Books) (Barnes & Noble).
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