Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans (2022) by Michaeleen Doucleff
Michaeleen Doucleff, PhD, is a correspondent for NPR’s Science Desk and a mom of a young child. Michaeleen travels all over the world and into remote communities to study the science of viruses. During her travels, Doucleff noticed/was shocked by parent-child relationship dynamics in these communities that appeared in great contrast to her own experiences with her own child. Doucleff marveled at how generously kids of all ages helped out around the house, as well as the lack of power struggles occurring between parents and children. And with that, Doucleff set out on her own journeys to return to many indigenous communities (with her toddler) to learn these parenting techniques. Much in a similar way as Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer (whom Doucleff also cites in this book), Doucleff reviews indigenous wisdom learned and validates with scientific research (some Western like Dr. Tina Payne Bryson and non-Western), as well as with anecdotes of her own practical experience implementing the knowledge/skills with her own daughter after returning home to San Francisco. I am both loving this trend of value and respect for indigenous wisdom, AND in awe of the courage and humility exemplified by Doucleff to be open and receptive to criticism and feedback about her parenting style in order to improve her parenting skills, make life easier and more enjoyable for herself/her family, and ultimately improve her relationship with her own daughter.
How did I hear about this book: One of my friends (who is a parent and not a therapist) recommended it to me.
Would I recommend it to colleagues: Absolutely
Would I recommend this to clients: Absolutely.
How do I apply this content to my work: As I have mentioned before, I do not work with child clients, therefore my goal for applying the content of this book to my work includes supporting my adult clients in their relationships with their children/families. The book highlights a lot of key concepts that I already utilize in my therapeutic lens such as remaining grounded in order to co-regulate others rather than control them (Polyvagal lens), emotional self-regulation, and meeting people where they are at (developmentally and/or emotionally). Additionally, the concept of Humility is a core value of mine, and a foundational part of my therapeutic lens, so I am in favor of weaving it into my work with clients to support their recovery.
Disclaimers: These reviews are based on my own personal experience reading these books and do not reflect on the book’s author or publisher. I have not received any commissions or other incentives to promote my reviews. My reviews express my own unbiased opinions.
