Teens React to Jonathan Haidt’s Viral Mental Health Talks

The ongoing teen mental health crisis has reached concerning levels, with statistics showing a 60 percent increase in depression and 40 percent of high school students reporting ongoing feelings of sadness and hopelessness, according to the 2024 Youth Risk Behavior Survey by the CDC. In light of these findings, experts like Jonathan Haidt have been vocal about their views on the impacts of technology on this demographic’s mental well-being. Haidt’s book, The Anxious Generation, released in 2024, attributes much of Gen Z’s struggles to their engagement with technology.

Haidt suggests strict guidelines regarding smartphone usage, advocating for no smartphones before high school and no social media until age 16. While some parents find these recommendations sensible, teens’ perspectives vary. A survey of SheKnows’ Teen Council indicates mixed reactions to Haidt’s claims. Some teens acknowledge that younger children should not have smartphones or social media. However, others express a more nuanced view, arguing that social media can serve as an important communication tool.

Additionally, some teens feel that the narrative surrounding their mental health is exaggerated, asserting that their generation discusses emotions more openly than in the past rather than experiencing a significant rise in mental illness.

• Why it matters:
• Heightened awareness of teen mental health can drive parents and educators to seek better support systems.
• Understanding teens’ views on technology and mental health may help inform policies and recommendations from experts.
• The latest:
• SheKnows conducted a focused survey among teens to gauge their reactions to expert opinions concerning mental health and technology.