Between Form and Freedom : Raising a Teenager

A wise and practical guide for navigating the turbulent teenage years.

In this revised edition of Between Form and Freedom, Betty Staley tackles challenges around self-esteem, pregnancy, behavioral problems, stress, depression, media, gender fluidity, eating disorders, and substance abuse. She explores growth needs in relation to family, friends, education, the arts, loyalty, and relationships. Parents value this guide for its unique address of teenagers’ soul and spiritual needs at a time when the quest for meaning is so vital.

• Discusses how adolescents present either the ‘mask’ or the ‘volcano’ as they struggle with identity and self-esteem.
• Tackles current questions of gender fluidity, eating disorders, and media addictions.
• Shares teenagers’ voices, stories, and experiences.
• Opens up windows to the changing inner life of developing teenagers.
• Offers easy-to-read nutshell summaries and questions for reflection.

This edition is welcomed by parenting voices such as Steve Biddulph, Caroline Penney, and Kim John Payne. It is for parents, educators, and counselors seeking practical advice for raising teenagers, understanding adolescent development, and supporting teen mental health.

Betty K. Staley was born in 1938 in the Bronx, New York, attended City University of New York, graduating Phi Beta Kappa with a BA in psychology and a minor in history. She received her Waldorf teacher training at the Michael Hall Teacher Training Course, Sussex, England. She earned her MA in Education at St. Mary's College, Moraga, California. Ms. Staley began her Waldorf teaching at the Sacramento Waldorf School as a kindergarten substi­tute and handwork teacher, and then became a class teacher from 5th through 8th grade before returning to take a 7th grade, which became the first high school class, graduating in 1978. She guided the high school and taught in it full-time for nineteen years. Ms. Staley was a co-founder of Rudolf Steiner College, Fair Oaks, California. She has been a consultant and guide to Waldorf teachers, both in independent Waldorf schools and in Waldorf methods public schools, and for teachers of at-risk students. A worldwide lecturer on child and adolescent development, multiculturalism, and Waldorf education, Ms. Staley is the author of five books: Tapestries: Weaving Life's Journey (1997); Soul Weaving: How to Shape Your Destiny and Inspire Your Dreams (2000); Between Form and Freedom: A Practical Guide to the Teenage Years (2009); and Africa: A Teacher's Guide (2017, 2021).

Steve Biddulph is one of the world’s best known parenting authors. His books include Secret of Happy Children; The New Manhood; and Raising Boys, are in four million homes and 31 languages. They have influenced the way we look at childhood and especially the development of boys and men.