The Next Big Idea cover image

The Next Big Idea

ACHIEVEMENT CULTURE: What It’s Doing to Our Kids—and to Us

Nov 16, 2023
01:12:27
Snipd AI
This podcast discusses the negative impact of achievement culture on kids and adults, including rising rates of anxiety and depression. The guests explore the worries of parents and society regarding the well-being of children and present solutions to dismantle this culture. They also discuss the effects of achievement culture on individuals, the changing nature of work and wealth, the challenges of unwinding economic privilege, and the potential impact of AI on job sectors and education.
Read more

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The prevalent achievement culture negatively impacts the mental health of American teenagers, contributing to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.
  • The intense focus on extrinsic values and achievement in the education system puts excessive pressure on children and compromises their mental well-being, requiring a shift in values and reevaluating economic pressures.

Deep dives

Negative impact of achievement culture on children's mental health

The podcast episode discusses how the prevalent achievement culture is negatively impacting the mental health of American teenagers, particularly those in high achieving schools. Studies show that rates of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse are significantly higher among these students compared to the general population. The pressure to constantly achieve, the focus on external validation, and the intense competition in academics and extracurriculars contribute to this phenomenon. The episode highlights the need for parents and society as a whole to reconsider the definition of success and prioritize intrinsic values, well-being, and meaningful relationships over external accomplishments.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode