Dad Saves America Jonathan Haidt: Why Did Our Kids Starts To Go Crazy in 2012?
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Nov 6, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and bestselling author, delves into the impacts of overprotective parenting and social media on Gen Z. He reveals how a culture of safety is stunting their growth and resilience. Haidt argues that excessive scheduling and screen time replace vital play, leading to increased anxiety and diminished independence. He highlights the dangers of 'safetyism' and discusses the importance of teaching children antifragility, encouraging them to embrace challenges rather than avoid them.
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Play Is The Core Of Childhood
- Human childhood is designed for extended play to practice adult skills through exploration and risk-taking.
- Modern reductions in unsupervised play have removed crucial practice that wires the brain for independence.
Audience Demo Shows Later Independence
- Haidt runs a live demo: older attendees say they were 'let out' around ages six to eight while Gen Z reports ages ten to twelve.
- This shift illustrates how unsupervised independence retreated just as society became safer.
Social Media Became More Toxic Around 2010
- Social media became more addictive and evaluative between 2009–2012 with likes, shares, and retweets amplifying shame and virality.
- Gen Z hit their teen years as platforms shifted, aligning timing with rising mental-health problems.
