No Fear: Growing up in a risk averse society argues that childhood is being undermined by the growth of risk aversion. This restricts children’s play, limits their freedom of movement, corrodes their relationships with adults and constrains their exploration of physical, social and virtual worlds.

 

Focusing on the crucial years of childhood between the ages of 5 and 11, No Fear examines some of the key issues with regard to children’s safety: playground design and legislation, antisocial behaviour, bullying, child protection, the fear of strangers and online risks. It offers insights into the roles of parents, teachers, carers, the media, safety agencies and the Government and shows how risk averse behaviour ironically can damage and endanger children’s lives. In conclusion, No Fear advocates a philosophy of resilience that strikes a better balance between protecting children from genuine threats and giving them rich, challenging opportunities through which to learn and grow.

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Professor Jennie Hudson, researcher at the Centre for Emotional Health in the Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, focusses on the prevention and treatment of children’s emotional health problems using cognitive behavioural therapy. She makes the link between a risk averse society and what that means for children’s abilities to face their fears.  Prof. Hudson explains why making mistakes are inevitable but their power to create a courageous coping model are so important.  Hear why parents are asked to encourage their children to perform little acts of bravery, often.

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Length: 17m : 44s