Jonathan Haidt: Why Social Media Has Caused a Collapse in Mental Health & #1 Way to Solve Your Anxiety

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How are smartphones linked to anxiety?

What mental health issues are linked to excessive social media use?

Today, let's welcome Jonathan Haidt is a renowned social psychologist, professor at New York University’s Stern School of Business, and a widely published author. He is known for his research on morality, culture, and the psychology of happiness. Jonathan's influential books include "The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion" and "The Coddling of the American Mind." His latest work, "The Anxious Generation," examines the profound impact of social media on young people's mental health.

Jonathan highlights the unprecedented global collapse of mental health among youth, describing it as more significant than the COVID-19 pandemic, with girls being particularly affected by anxiety and depression, and boys showing significant social development issues.

The conversation also addresses the academic debate regarding the root causes of this mental health crisis, with Jonathan presenting compelling data and experimental evidence to support his view that social media is a primary driver. He offers actionable solutions, including delaying smartphone and social media use until later ages, implementing phone-free school policies, increasing outdoor play, and advocating for collective action by parents and communities.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to create a healthier digital environment for kids

How to implement age-appropriate tech usage

How to encourage outdoor play and physical activities

How to talk to children about the risks of social media

How to foster resilience and emotional strength in kids

How to create a supportive community for parents

Together, let's take a comprehensive look into the mental health crisis the youth is facing today and take note of the practical strategies for creating a healthier environment that supports their well-being.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:55 Global Synchronized Collapse of Mental Health
• 08:12 Social Media is for Adults to Network
• 10:20 The Science Behind Anxiety
• 14:51 Variation of Emotions is Necessary for Kids
• 17:45 Play Helps Kids Learn
• 19:12 How to Make Playtime More Effective?
• 22:59 The Effects of Technology on Different Genders
• 29:24 Going Through Puberty on Social Media
• 32:08 How Parenting Has Changed with Technology
• 34:27 Efforts to Regulate Smartphones Use for Children
• 44:21 Women Are Always Judged for Their Looks
• 49:26 Verified Social Media Account
• 56:58 Why Tap Into Our Spirituality
• 01:03:56 What is Happening to Us?
• 01:11:31 The Greatest Distraction of Human Value
• 01:16:23 Jonathan on Final Five

Episode Resources:

• Jonathan Haidt | Website
• Jonathan Haidt | Instagram
• Jonathan Haidt | Facebook
• Jonathan Haidt | X
• Jonathan Haidt | YouTube
• Jonathan Haidt | LinkedIn

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