Grandparents Play Crucial Role in Tackling Child Mental Health Crisis, Says Leading Psychologist
Child psychologist Kenneth Barish, a clinical professor at Weill Cornell Medicine, says rebuilding support from grandparents and extended family could help ease the emotional strain many American children now face. In a new book, The Art and Science of Parenting and Grandparenting, published on June 13, 2026, Barish argues that the weakening of family and community ties has contributed to rising sadness, hopelessness, anxiety and depression among children and teenagers, and that children benefit from more than just parent-led care.
Barish says American culture has become increasingly focused on individual achievement, often at the expense of kindness, empathy and cooperation. He believes children need a stronger sense of purpose that goes beyond grades, awards and personal success. In his view, helping others can improve emotional balance and build resilience, while constant pressure to excel can increase stress and mental health problems, especially in high-achieving communities.
The psychologist points to research suggesting that acts of helping are associated with higher self-esteem, lower depression, fewer dropouts, better immune function and even longer life. He recommends that families regularly talk with children about kindness, caring and understanding other people’s feelings. He also encourages parents and grandparents to volunteer together with children so they can learn the value of contribution through shared experience. These conversations, he says, are as important as academic oversight and discipline.
Barish places special emphasis on the role of grandparents. He describes them as a source of emotional security, offering children “moments of listening and encouragement” that help build what he calls emotional strength. According to Barish, children are better protected when they know that someone in their life will listen, understand, and help them believe that problems can be solved and painful feelings will not last forever. He says grandparents can also enrich children’s lives through play, warmth and genuine interest in their hobbies, goals and daily experiences.
The book also challenges the idea that children mainly need more praise. Barish says one of the most common problems he sees in family work is not excessive praise but excessive criticism, even when it comes from caring relatives. He argues that frequent criticism can lead to resentment, resistance and weakened motivation. Instead, he advises parents and grandparents to praise effort, learning and persistence rather than intelligence, talent or grades, reflecting principles linked to a growth mindset.
Barish also offers practical guidance for managing difficult behavior. Rather than relying on punishment, he favors collaborative problem-solving and opportunities for children to reset and recover from mistakes. His broader message is that strong children are not created by pressure alone, but by relationships that combine guidance, empathy, encouragement and emotional safety.
He says helping children succeed is less about constant correction and more about meaningful conversations, learning to handle disappointment and building inner confidence. Through that approach, Barish argues, children are more likely to become resilient, caring and purposeful adults.
