June 6, 2025
Understanding Orchids and Dandelions: A Deeper Dive into Human Temperament with Dr. Thomas Boyce
Raising Good HumansAbout this episode
In today’s episode I sit down with Dr. Thomas Boyce, professor of pediatrics and psychiatry at UCSF, about his 40 years of research on temperamental differences in children, specifically focusing on his concept of 'orchid' and 'dandelion' children. Dr. Boyce explains how while most children are resilient like dandelions, a significant minority are sensitive 'orchids' who react more strongly to their environments. We discuss Boyce's research, the biological underpinnings of these temperamental differences, and how different environments impact these children. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here: https://bit.ly/3rMLMsL Subscribe to my free newsletter for parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: draliza.substack.com Follow me on Instagram for more: @raisinggoodhumanspodcast Sponsors: Ground News: Go to https://groundnews.com/HUMANS to get 40% off the unlimited access Vantage plan–the same plan that I use to stay informed Iris & Romeo: Visit IrisandRomeo.com and use code HUMANS at checkout for 20% off your first purchase Active Skin Repair: Visit https://www.ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and to get 20% off your order, use code:HUMANS Water Wipes: Visit WaterWipes.com to learn more about how Water Wipes effectively cleans with minimal ingredients that leave nothing behind Kiwico: Get $15 off on your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/RGH Quince: Go to Quince.com/humans for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five-day returns Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode. Produced by Dear Media. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .