Plain English with Derek Thompson Why the Cult of Achievement in Schools Is Making People Miserable
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Mar 28, 2023 
Lisa Damour, a psychologist and New York Times bestselling author, delves into the problematic culture of achievement in schools. She reveals the alarming rise in anxiety and depression among teens, particularly in affluent families, due to intense academic pressure. The discussion highlights the impact of the college admissions process, where perceived meritocracy clashes with chance. Damour emphasizes the importance of sleep and urges a reevaluation of educational expectations to prioritize student well-being over competition.
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The Paradox of Affluence
- Rich countries often have sadder adolescents than poorer countries, contradicting typical economic patterns.
- This teen sadness correlates strongly with school competition and high standardized test scores.
Shifting Demographics of Anxiety
- Teen anxiety and depression are increasing, and the demographics have shifted.
- It's now most prevalent among upper-middle and high-income families, not low-income households.
College Pressure Cooker
- School anxiety is largely driven by pressure to get into a small number of elite colleges.
- The college application process has become increasingly complex, contributing to stress.
