AI-Proof Heather Malin — Can AI Help Kids Find Their Purpose?
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Oct 30, 2025 
Heather Malin, former director of research at Stanford's Center on Adolescence and author of *Teaching for Purpose*, dives into how kids can discover their purpose amidst the rise of AI. She discusses the evolution of her relationship with technology and its dual role in exacerbating adolescent anxiety while offering new supportive tools. Malin emphasizes the difference between purpose and passion, and illustrates how AI can personalize education, helping students connect with mentors and meaningful projects, all while cautioning against replacing essential human relationships.
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Adolescence Is Marked By Overwhelm And Isolation
- Adolescents report high overwhelm, anxiety, and loneliness amplified by academic pressure and technology.
- Heather Malin links these trends to pre-COVID increases that technology and pandemic worsened.
Teach Purpose As Actionable Commitment
- Define purpose as a meaningful, beyond-the-self intention that you act on and commit to.
- Teach students to reflect, act, and sustain commitments rather than forcing a single lifelong passion.
Focus On Exploration Not Passion Discovery
- Avoid pressuring teens to find one passion; build habits for ongoing exploration instead.
- Encourage reflection, exploration, and small actions that reveal interests over time.
