The Shocking Impact of Phone Bans on Kids’ Mental Health | Episode 35 with Jessica and Lauren

31/03/2025 31 min

Listen "The Shocking Impact of Phone Bans on Kids’ Mental Health | Episode 35 with Jessica and Lauren"

Episode Synopsis

Jonathan Haidt is a professor and author of The Anxious Generation, a book exploring how smartphones and social media have rewired kids' brains and impacted their mental health, academic performance, and resilience. We break down his research, including a case study on Mountain Middle School, which saw massive improvements after banning phones. Haidt argues that excessive screen time has widened the achievement gap, particularly harming low-income and minority students.We also dig into the flawed push for technology in schools, the unintended consequences of digital learning, and why wealthy tech executives send their own kids to low-tech schools. Haidt suggests solutions like phone-free schools, more recess, and assignments that teach independence. Is banning phones the answer, or is there more to the story? Let’s talk about it.Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.Follow The Little Brain CampaignInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/

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