How are smartphones linked to anxiety?
What mental health issues are linked to excessive social media use?
Today, let's welcome Jonathan Haidt is a renowned social psychologist, professor at New York University’s Stern School of Business, and a widely published author. He is known for his research on morality, culture, and the psychology of happiness. Jonathan's influential books include "The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion" and "The Coddling of the American Mind." His latest work, "The Anxious Generation," examines the profound impact of social media on young people's mental health.
Jonathan highlights the unprecedented global collapse of mental health among youth, describing it as more significant than the COVID-19 pandemic, with girls being particularly affected by anxiety and depression, and boys showing significant social development issues.
The conversation also addresses the academic debate regarding the root causes of this mental health crisis, with Jonathan presenting compelling data and experimental evidence to support his view that social media is a primary driver. He offers actionable solutions, including delaying smartphone and social media use until later ages, implementing phone-free school policies, increasing outdoor play, and advocating for collective action by parents and communities.
In this interview, you'll learn:
How to create a healthier digital environment for kids
How to implement age-appropriate tech usage
How to encourage outdoor play and physical activities
How to talk to children about the risks of social media
How to foster resilience and emotional strength in kids
How to create a supportive community for parents
Together, let's take a comprehensive look into the mental health crisis the youth is facing today and take note of the practical strategies for creating a healthier environment that supports their well-being.
With Love and Gratitude,
Jay Shetty
What We Discuss:
00:00 Intro
01:55 Global Synchronized Collapse of Mental Health
08:12 Social Media is for Adults to Network
10:20 The Science Behind Anxiety
14:51 Variation of Emotions is Necessary for Kids
17:45 Play Helps Kids Learn
19:12 How to Make Playtime More Effective?
22:59 The Effects of Technology on Different Genders
29:24 Going Through Puberty on Social Media
32:08 How Parenting Has Changed with Technology
34:27 Efforts to Regulate Smartphones Use for Children
44:21 Women Are Always Judged for Their Looks
49:26 Verified Social Media Account
56:58 Why Tap Into Our Spirituality
01:03:56 What is Happening to Us?
01:11:31 The Greatest Distraction of Human Value
01:16:23 Jonathan on Final Five
Episode Resources:
Jonathan Haidt | Website
Jonathan Haidt | Instagram
Jonathan Haidt | Facebook
Jonathan Haidt | X
Jonathan Haidt | YouTube
Jonathan Haidt | LinkedIn
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty 
