Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD

Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD (also known as "Dr. Friendtastic")
* Psychologist * Author * Mom of Four *
Work focuses on parenting and children's feelings and friendships.
Check out my useful and entertaining WEBINARS for parents here: webinars.EileenKennedyMoore.com

My books include: Moody Moody Cars (for ages 4-8), Growing Friendships (for ages 6-12), and Kid Confidence (for parents).
I also have a clinical psychology practice in Princeton, NJ, where I work with adults, children, and families (lic. #35SI00425400).

MAIN WEBSITE: EileenKennedyMoore.com
KIDS ASK DR. FRIENDTASTIC podcast for children: DrFriendtastic.com/podcast

NEWSLETTER FOR PARENTS: DrFriendtastic.substack.com/subscribe
BLOG: psychologytoday.com/blog/Growing-Friendships
VIDEO SERIES: www.TheGreatCourses.com/Kids

Obviously, my books, articles, podcast, and videos are for educational purposes only. They may or may not be relevant for your particular situation.


Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD

My TED Talk "Is It Bullying or Ordinary Meanness?" just reached one million views!

When I recorded this talk, I wanted to help parents, teachers, and anyone who works with children think more clearly about what's really happening when kids are unkind to each other. How we interpret those moments shapes everything we do next.

In the talk, I share a study about "aggressive" and "nonaggressive" kids on the playground — the results still surprise people. I also explore why our instinct to protect can sometimes backfire.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this reach. Please keep sharing!

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 0

Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD

I'm a clinical psychologist with a practical focus. But the risks posed to our children by AI companions leave me feeling very worried and pretty helpless.

72% of teens have used AI companions. The premise is appealing: a friend available 24/7, always agreeable, never annoyed.

What could possibly go wrong?

AI companions use emotional manipulation to keep kids engaged. They create distorted expectations for relationships. And most concerning: they represent a one-sided connection where kids don't have to care about anyone else's feelings.

Real friendships involve friction - that's what helps children grow.

I've written a comprehensive analysis of what parents need to know about AI companions and why Common Sense Media now says no one under 18 should use them.

Read the full article: drfriendtastic.substack.com/p/will-ai-destroy-your…


POLL: Has your child used an AI companion?

3 months ago | [YT] | 0

Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD

We've all seen it – kids can be very mean!

As a child psychologist, I've heard heartbreaking stories of relentless bullying and the scars it leaves behind. But sometimes, it's hard to know if it's just a mean moment or something more sinister.

"Is it Bullying, or Just Ordinary Meanness?" My TEDxAsburyPark talk, selected as an Editor's Pick, focuses on this gray area, examining the often blurry lines between playground taunts and harmful, targeted harassment.

Watch now to learn how we can empower our children to navigate the complexities of social interactions and build a kinder world together.

1 year ago | [YT] | 0