Raising an Optimistic Child: A Proven Plan for Depression-Proofing Young Children--For Life

by Bob Murray, Alicia Fortinberry

A program for fostering positive relationship-building habits in children to help alleviate and even prevent childhood depression Raising an Optimistic Child offers you tools for creating a positive, supportive family atmosphere that helps children who are already depressed and can even prevent this crippling disorder. Steps and additional techniques will help you combat your own depression, tackle parental issues, and enhance learning and coping skills. It also alerts you to circumstances that put a child at risk for depression and suggests ways to ward it off.

Genres: Parenting, Education

304 pages, Paperback

First published December 23, 2005

About the author

Bob Murray is a psychologist, author, and cofounder of Fortinberry Murray, a global consultancy dedicated to building relationship-centered cultures in organizations. Drawing on neuroscience and behavioral science, he has helped shape leadership and strategy for Global 500 firms and professional institutions. With Alicia Fortinberry, he developed a practical system for strengthening human connection to enhance resilience and performance. Their acclaimed Uplift Program for depression, sponsored by the University of Florida, and best-selling books Creating Optimism and Raising an Optimistic Child have reached thousands. Bob also led President Obama’s US National Workstress Initiative.

Reviews

[Steffy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nothing new or earth shattering here as far as parenting is concerned, but I took away a few good points: 1) Constantly telling your child to "be careful" or "watch out" can make them CRAZY NERVOUS and ANXIOUS, 2) Kids need to run, scream and have time to spaz out (especially boys), so get used to it and let them have their time - don't try to suppress it, and 3) Just a little bit of nature time outside does us all a lot of good.

[Vicky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book to see if I could learn anything to help in raising my children. It is recommended to implement the ideas within for children under 6 years old, but is still relevant for older children and even adults. I took notes as I went to make for easier reference down the road and learned a number of helpful tips, some of which I'm already enjoying the results from. I recommend this book for any parent as well as anyone who struggles with depression or low self-esteem. Some things may not apply to everyone, but something is likely to apply for everyone.

[Jonas Stephan Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good day all well this is i faith a vital book through raising children god blees really have a good one.

[Zhijing Jin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Books in a batch:
- Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
- A Complaint Free World
- How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

[Zandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really interesting book about what influences in a child's early life can make them more or less prone to depression. The authors' emphasis on providing adequate time in nature and accepting the fact that boys are going to be high very energy especially resonated with me. This book isn’t likely to provide the reader with any earth shattering new ideas, but it is wonderful to help focus your energy and remind yourself how important your day to day interaction with your children and your spouse can be in shaping your children’s future.

[Margo Ramsden · Rating 3 out of 5]

OK - I can't do everything this book says, but it does give some good ideas about how to build a sense of confidence in your child/children.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

EXCELLENT book!!!!! I didn't think you could write a book with a true plan for avoiding raising children prone to non-medical depression, but this just might be it.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some helpful ideas. Sometimes that is all that's needed.
Different perspectives and reassurance.
Trying hard to create healthy habits!