Round Table China School apathy. Have teens stopped caring?
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May 19, 2025 Teens are showing up to school physically but mentally tuning out, a trend dubbed 'hollow heart disorder' in China. The podcast digs into why learning feels meaningless, with research suggesting that rigid structures and academic pressures stifle genuine interest. Parental nagging emerges as a counterproductive force, often leading to disengagement. Cultural differences play a significant role in student motivation, while new initiatives aim to boost emotional well-being and foster autonomy in learning.
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Teen Apathy and Hollow Heart Disorder
- Many teens attend school physically but are mentally disengaged, experiencing a hollow feeling despite academic success.
- This phenomenon is seen in the U.S. and in China as "hollow heart disorder," indicating a lack of spiritual fulfillment.
He Yang's School Apathy Experience
- He Yang shared his experience of being a good but disengaged student in high school.
- His grades were good, but he lacked passion and curiosity for school.
Cultural Differences in Teen Engagement
- Cultural views on adolescence shape teen engagement: Western teens often rebel and reject school as relevant.
- In China, academic success is admired, giving high-achieving students social protection despite possible apathy.