Understanding the Messages of the Child's Soul. When children suffer psychologically or physically, parents and educators inevitably ask "why." Thomas Schäfer, one of the most prominent family therapists, addresses the issues that often pose significant challenges for parents and educators in his new book, offering pathways to solutions. How can one combine love with consistency without resorting to power struggles? What should be done when children are very anxious or angry, clingy, socially isolated, or having problems at school? What is really behind illnesses and symptoms such as bedwetting, soiling, neurodermatitis, asthma and allergies, stuttering, tics, ADHD, nightmares, eating disorders, or depression? A systemic perspective often reveals helpful explanations, making a more relaxed family life possible in the long run.