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Habits and Hustle

Episode 417: Dr. Leonard Sax: The Collapse of Parenting and the Rise of Childhood Anxiety and Depression

Jan 21, 2025
Dr. Leonard Sax, a renowned psychologist and author, discusses the alarming rise of anxiety and depression among children today. He highlights how social media and a culture of disrespect affect parenting and child development. Sax advocates for a balanced approach to parenting—loving yet disciplined—to foster resilience. He also critiques the over-prescription of ADHD medication and the risks of misdiagnosing normal behaviors. Insightful strategies for instilling self-control and managing childhood obesity and anxiety are also covered.
59:26

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The pervasive influence of social media has fostered a culture of disrespect among children, leading to increased anxiety and depression.
  • Establishing a balance between love and authority in parenting is critical to counteracting disrespectful behavior and promoting healthy development.

Deep dives

Impact of Technology on Parenting

A significant concern discussed is the impact of technology on parenting styles and children's mental health. In particular, the rise of social media is linked to a culture that promotes instant gratification and a desire for fame over essential values such as honesty and kindness. This cultural shift has led to children spending less time with adults and more time with peers, often online rather than in person. The lack of intergenerational bonding is identified as a key factor contributing to the rising anxiety and depression levels among children in English-speaking countries compared to those in other cultures, like Greece and Russia, where social dynamics differ significantly.

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