This book investigates the role of intelligence and emotion in the everyday life of teenagers. Author John Mitchell argues that the behavior of teens is shaped by both higher and lower expressions of their natural intelligence. In the absence of competent guidance from caring adults, the lower expressions frequently prevail, producing a downward turn in rationality and a reduced capacity for problem solving.

The emotional life of teens is confused by their alternating cravings for togetherness and selfishness. Mitchell advances the case that during the teen years all relationships are laced with an egocentric selfishness that impedes the adolescent’s capacity for genuine intimacy and love. The emotional life of teens is made even more turbulent by the fact their behavior is sometimes guided by the higher and sometimes by the lower expressions of their intelligence.

John J. Mitchell, PhD, is a retired professor of educational psychology at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. He is acknowledged as one of Canada’s leading authorities on child and adolescent development, having written 15 books on childhood, adolescence, and related topics.

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