TANYA BYRON, Edge Hill University’s newly-installed chancellor will deliver a free lecture on why the UK has the most miserable teenagers in Europe.

Prof Byron, clinical psychologist, broadcaster and Government advisor will address the growing issue of ephebiphobia, the fear of young people. She will argue that society demonises children, rather than the teenagers being the problem themselves.

Prof Byron, who has become renowned for her TV programmes dealing with contemporary psychology issues, said: “Today in the media we hear phrases like ‘broken Britain and ‘toxic childhood’ being used almost daily and it is this attitude towards youth that makes attaining their aspirations an impossible dream.

“As a society, we make it very difficult for young people to just be young people.

“We appear to feel threatened by a phase in life that is all about challenging and identity formation.

“I feel that education has a key role to play in addressing and ensuring the change in society’s attitude towards young people.”

The lecture will explore the university as an example of an institution that challenges issues of social negativity directed towards young people today.

The evening, on Tuesday, March 24, will begin with pre-lecture drinks at 5pm, followed by the lecture at 6pm and then refreshments following at 7.15pm.

To reserve free tickets, email Sharon Buckley, at buckleys@edgehill.ac.uk