Jonathan Haidt on Gen Z Fragility, Social Media, and the Cult of Safety

Video Description

I sat down with social psychologist and bestselling author Jonathan Haidt to examine how overprotective parenting and unfettered access to social media have stunted the development of Gen Z. A decades-long obsession with safety has replaced unsupervised outdoor play with online binging—and now we’re faced with a younger generation that’s more anxious, less confident, and robbed of the independence and resilience needed to grow into capable adults. What will it take for America to raise free, competent, and happy children again? Subscribe and ring the notification bell so you don’t miss a single video! Follow Jonathan on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/JonHaidt _____________________________________ Purchase a T-shirt, hoodie, and more over on our merch store: https://shop.dadsavesamerica.com/ Another great way to support our work is by visiting our curated Amazon shop featuring our guests’ books and dad stuff I actually use. This channel earns a commission on qualifying purchases. Please visit & bookmark: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dadsavesamerica Visit Dad Saves America on Substack: https://www.dadsavesamerica.com/ Make a tax-deductible donation to Dad Saves America: https://secure.anedot.com/emergent-order-foundation/dad-website? _____________________________________ Outline: [0:00] Introduction [0:45] The origin of “The Coddling of the American Mind” [2:09] What does it mean to be an adult? [10:18] Why parents should avoid over-scheduling [12:20] Is Gen Z actually that unique? [16:26] Social media’s impact on kids’ mental health [20:05] Looking beyond depression and anxiety [22:11] Do fragile kids become failed adults? [24:08] How can people achieve happiness? [28:34] The bad ideas running our society [29:35] Why is anti-fragility so important? [33:25] Stick-and-stones vs mean words [37:47] What is “locus of control”? [40:56] Should we trust our feelings? [45:16] Measuring childhood success [47:14] Kids’ problems become society’s problems [49:09] Where is America headed if we don’t change course? Dad Saves America explores the philosophies and practical steps we need to raise capable, curious, independent adults ready to thrive in a virtuous free society... and want to keep it that way. We’ve had all sorts of experts in the studio, including Jonathan Haidt, Dr. Drew, Michael Shellenberger, Bret Weinstein, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Adam Carolla. #jonathanhaidt #mentalhealth #genz #socialmedia