The scribe be pleadin' with mates to release their young'uns from th' cursed clutches of th' 'toxic achievement culture'! Set ye children free, and ponder upon these four crucial queries, says 'e!
2023-09-04
Arr, me hearties! The wise lass Jennifer Breheny Wallace be warnin' all ye parents, students, and teachers to ponder upon yer contribution to this cursed "toxic achievement culture" and the relentless battles in the realm o' education. Be mindful, me mateys!
Jennifer Breheny Wallace, an author, journalist, and mom, is urging parents, students, and teachers to break free from the "toxic achievement culture" that has taken over their lives. In her book, "Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic—And What We Can Do About It," she shines a light on a new at-risk group of students attending high-achieving schools. These students face immense pressure to maintain top grades and participate in multiple extracurricular activities to secure a spot at a competitive college.Wallace emphasizes that these high-achieving schools are breeding grounds for anxiety, depression, and substance abuse disorders among students. She speaks from personal experience as a mother with children attending these schools and her desire to protect them from the excessive pressures.
To help parents determine if they are part of a toxic achievement culture, Wallace suggests asking four questions: examining their child's calendar, evaluating how money is spent on their children, considering what they ask their kids about when they come home, and reflecting on what they argue with their kids about. These questions provide insight into the importance placed on achievement in the home.
Wallace also discusses the loss of self-reflection among students in today's increasingly secular society. Religion used to help young people grapple with big questions about their identity, purpose, and meaning, but these introspective discussions are decreasing among today's youth.
It is important to note that Wallace is not against ambition or achievement. She encourages parents to be ambitious for more than just career success and to prioritize healthy relationships and personal fulfillment.
In her book, Wallace offers guidance on how to foster cultures of mattering and encourages parents, adults, and grandparents to read it to learn more. Breaking free from the toxic achievement culture can lead to happier, healthier lives for students and families.