In a world dominated by smartphones and digital interaction, a surge in anxiety levels among the youth has become a pressing concern. Recent research highlights that while technology plays a significant role, other factors contribute to this worrying trend. As Pilar Jericó’s insightful piece from El País reveals, the root causes of increased anxiety are multifaceted, encompassing parental practices, societal expectations, and digital usage.
The spotlight often falls on technology’s impact, with instances like children preferring to engage with tablets over face-to-face interactions, and teenagers absorbed in social media during what could be communal moments. This scenario is prevalent not only in the West but also observable in countries like Thailand, reflecting a global shift in youth behavior. However, Dr. Jean M. Twenge’s studies from San Diego State University suggest that the problem’s foundation pre-dates widespread device use, tracing back to evolving parenting styles from the 1980s. This era marked the onset of overprotective parenting, stemming from fears that curtailed children’s autonomy and playtime.
Professor Jonathan Haidt of New York University points out the paradox of parental hypervigilance contrasted against the unrestricted freedom children enjoy online. His book, “The Anxious Generation,” proposes controlling these influencers by delaying smartphone use until high school and restricting social media access until at least sixteen. Such measures, akin to those being considered by educators and parents in Thailand, signify a proactive stance against the mental health challenges burgeoning in the digital age.
The narrative of parenting as a contributor to youth anxiety is further expanded by psychologist Alison Gopnik. Her comparison of parenting styles to gardening versus carpentry emphasizes nurturing children’s growth with more freedom to explore, rather than carving them into preconceived patterns. This perspective urges parents to relinquish some control, allowing children to engage in chores, explore outdoors, and navigate social interactions with minimal supervision.
Thai society, where respect for elders and communal activities are integral, can find cultural resonance in these suggestions. Encouraging young people to partake in traditional family events without screen interruptions or engage in community-based activities could reinforce these foundational community values, thereby reducing reliance on digital devices.
The historical context of parenting approaches reveals that the shift towards less freedom for children coincided with heightened success metrics and academic pressures—trends also familiar in Thai education, where academic excellence is prized. For Thai parents, this research underscores the importance of balancing educational aspirations with opportunities for unstructured play and emotional development.
Moving forward, societal strategies that foster healthy development among youth could include promoting group travel to school, engaging in non-digital play, and encouraging participation in voluntary or nature-based activities. These initiatives aim to cultivate resilience and independence, equipping young Thais to handle life’s pressures without excessive reliance on technology.
In conclusion, while smartphones and digital media are indeed influencers of modern anxiety, they are far from the sole culprits. A holistic approach involving mindful parenting, societal support, and strategic digital use may offer the best path forward. Thai parents, educators, and policymakers can take cues from global insights to tailor approaches that fit within the cultural landscape, ultimately benefiting the mental health of future generations.