HTH: The Problem with Rich Kids

Hope This Helps (HTH) is a series where fellow youth workers share resources they’ve found helpful in ministry.  Of course, some things work in some churches and not in others.  But, as always, hope this helps.

For youth pastors who work in upper-class, suburban settings, this article by Columbia professor Suniya Luthar is indispensible. Dr. Luthar examines the mental health problems common among affluent teenagers, especially those who are over-programmed with activities for college admissions resumes.

Cameron Cole is the founding chairman of Rooted Ministry. In addition to serving the local church for nearly twenty years in youth and family ministry, he is the co-editor of Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry: A Practical Guide (Crossway, 2016). Cameron is the author of Therefore I Have Hope: 12 Truths that Comfort, Sustain, and Redeem in Tragedy (Crossway, 2018), which won World Magazine’s 2018 Book of the Year (Accessible Theology) and was runner up for The Gospel Coalition’s Book of the Year (First-Time Author). He is also the co-editor of The Jesus I Wish I Knew in High School (New Growth Press) and the author of Heavenward: How Eternity Can Change Your Life on Earth (Crossway, 2024). Cameron holds an undergraduate degree and an M.A. in Education from Wake Forest, as well as an M.Div from Reformed Theological Seminary. Cameron is married to Lauren and together they have four children, one of whom lives in heaven.

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