The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness

The impact of technology on social and psychological development is a central theme in the book. Haidt explores how the rapid integration of smartphones and social media into daily life has transformed childhood and adolescence, leading to significant changes in how young people develop socially and psychologically. He argues that the ubiquity of digital devices has disrupted traditional forms of social interaction, contributing to increased feelings of isolation and anxiety among adolescents.

Haidt provides numerous examples to support his argument, citing studies that show a correlation between heavy social media use and higher rates of depression and anxiety. He explains that social media platforms, designed to maximize user engagement, often encourage behaviors such as social comparison and cyberbullying, which can have detrimental effects on self-esteem and mental health. The constant exposure to curated, idealized images of peers can lead to unrealistic expectations and a persistent fear of missing out (FOMO), exacerbating feelings of inadequacy and loneliness.

Further, Haidt discusses the concept of the “Great Rewiring,” referring to the fundamental changes in how young people experience and navigate the world due to digital media—the term depicts the transformed neural connections within children’s brains. He notes that the shift from in-person interactions to online communication has reduced opportunities for developing essential social skills, such as empathy and conflict resolution.