#YouthAnxiety

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.

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.