Anxiety among young people is rising in a world saturated with smartphones, but experts warn that technology alone does not explain the trend. New analyses show multiple factors—from parenting approaches to social expectations and digital habits—shape mental health in today’s youth. Research summarized by journalists highlights that while screens matter, the root causes are broader and complex.
Children often opt for tablets over in-person interaction, and teens binge on social media during moments that could be shared as a family or community activity. This pattern is seen not only in Western nations but also in Thailand, reflecting a global shift in how young people connect and cope. Yet studies from researchers at San Diego State University indicate that the trend began before smartphones became pervasive, tied to changes in parenting styles since the 1980s. Overprotective approaches emerged from fears over autonomy and safe play, inadvertently shaping emotional development.
Experts emphasize the tension between parental vigilance online and the freedom children exercise on the internet. A prominent social psychologist has argued for delaying smartphone use and limiting social media access until high school or beyond, a stance echoed in schools and households exploring healthier digital boundaries in Thailand. These ideas align with a proactive approach to youth mental health that many Thai educators and parents are beginning to consider.
A leading developmental psychologist recommends a gardening-like view of parenting: nurture children with space to grow, rather than shaping them into fixed outcomes. This perspective invites parents to share chores, encourage outdoor exploration, and supervise social interactions with less micromanagement—fostering independence alongside emotional resilience.
Thai culture, with its emphasis on respect for elders and communal activities, can benefit from integrating these ideas. Encouraging youths to participate in family traditions and community events without screens, or to engage in local clubs and volunteering, may reinforce core cultural values while reducing excessive digital reliance.
Historical shifts in parenting also intersect with academic pressures common in Thai education. The drive for exam success often narrows opportunities for free play and emotional development. The new insights encourage Thai families to balance scholastic goals with unstructured time and social experiences that support well-being.
Practical steps for communities include promoting group travel to school, organizing non-digital play spaces, and expanding participation in nature-based activities or volunteer programs. Such efforts aim to build resilience and independence, helping young Thais navigate life’s pressures with healthier coping mechanisms beyond screens.
In summary, smartphones and digital media contribute to anxiety but are not the sole drivers. A holistic strategy—mindful parenting, supportive social environments, and balanced digital use—offers a promising path. Thai parents, educators, and policymakers can adapt global findings to fit local values and realities, supporting the mental health of future generations.