The discussion centers on schools canceling classes ahead of the 2024 election, prompting concerns about rising learned helplessness among students. Insights focus on the implications of overprotectiveness and the importance of civic engagement. The hosts explore how educational institutions respond to political pressures and their impact on mental health. Strategies for building resilience and personal responsibility during adversity are emphasized, alongside the role of advocacy in creating positive change during turbulent times.
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Quick takeaways
The decision of schools to allow students to opt out of classes may foster an avoidance mindset that hinders resilience development.
Encouraging proactive engagement in response to adversity can lead to greater emotional stability and fulfillment, rather than feelings of helplessness.
Deep dives
New Baker's Points Reward System
Baker's has introduced a new rewards system that allows customers to choose between saving on fuel or applying their points towards future purchases. Customers will continue to accumulate points with every shop at Baker's, which can then be redeemed for up to $1 off per gallon of fuel or used to discount their next purchase. This flexible approach aims to enhance customer satisfaction by providing choices that cater to varying needs, placing greater control in the hands of shoppers. However, it should be noted that this option may not be available at all locations, and specific terms and conditions apply.
Impact of Emotional Policies in Education
A controversial policy adopted by the Ethical Culture Fieldston School allowed students to excuse themselves from school if they felt upset by the recent presidential election's outcome. The hosts discuss the implications of such policies, suggesting that they may inadvertently encourage an avoidance mindset rather than resilience and engagement in difficult conversations. This reflects an ongoing trend in education, particularly in affluent areas, where children's emotional responses are validated at the expense of developing coping mechanisms for adversity. The speakers argue that this approach may ultimately hinder the students' growth and ability to navigate real-life challenges.
Coddling vs. Resilience in Today's Youth
The discussion highlights the perception that the modern educational environment is overly accommodating, leading to a generation of students who may struggle with resilience. The speakers express concern that granting blanket permission to avoid challenges undermines the development of coping skills, essential for personal growth. They counter that challenges, including disappointment and frustration, should be viewed as opportunities to learn and grow rather than as triggers for withdrawal. The hosts emphasize that fostering resilience requires nurturing an approach that prepares youth to face adversity head-on, rather than retreating into emotional comforts.
Intellectual Curiosity and Personal Agency
The conversation shifts towards the importance of fostering intellectual curiosity and personal agency, particularly in response to political and social events. Individuals should be encouraged to take proactive steps rather than succumb to feelings of helplessness, such as engaging in advocacy or supporting those affected by political changes. The speakers note that people who channel their concerns into constructive action often find greater fulfillment and emotional stability, rather than wallowing in distress. Overall, the emphasis is on cultivating a mindset that recognizes the value of engagement and action, rather than withdrawal and despair.
On a new episode of Weekend Conversations on the Elevate Podcast, host Robert Glazer and producer Mick Sloan discuss the decision of several schools and universities to cancel classes preemptively in preparation for the 2024 election. They discuss the reasoning behind those decisions and why the result is a rise of learned helplessness and a decrease in resilience in young people. Then, they discuss a better way to respond to adversity.