Mattering as a Core Need in Children and Adolescents: Theoretical, Clinical, and Research Perspectives

By: Gordon L. Flett

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Synopsis: This book summarizes the psychological research on the concept of mattering in children and adolescents, and outcomes associated with the presence or absence of feelings of being valued by others. Mattering, the felt experience of being valued and necessary to others, is a unique and complex psychological construct. Differences in children&’s sense of mattering to their family, friends, and significant others predict consequential outcomes at the individual, relationship, and societal levels. Gordon Flett offers important, evidence-based insights from the psychological literature, drawing clear links between a lack of mattering and measures of children's depression, anxiety, suicide risk, aggression and violence. Conversely, he shows how mattering to others is reflected in measures of resilience, adaptability, motivation, and performance. Crucial links are also explored between social marginalization and mattering, and case material is used throughout the book to illustrate key points. The clinical chapters describe mental health interventions that measure and address issues related to children&’s sense of mattering in family, school, and community contexts.