Since screens have become a near immersive experience for our society, the mental health of adolescents has also taken a nosedive, with rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide rising sharply. Jonathan Haidt’s book, “The Anxious Generation,” sheds light on this epidemic, exploring how the switch from a “play-based childhood” to a “phone-based childhood.” Technology has disrupted children’s social and neurological development and contributed to youth anxiety in a major way. Haidt’s insights are crucial for all parents and mental health professionals. however, they hold particular significance for those supporting autistic, ADHD, and gender minority youth.

The Impact of Screens on Youth Anxiety and Social Connection

Haidt argues that the rise of smartphones and social media has profoundly altered childhood, especially affecting mental wellness and social connections, primarily how kids and teens are creating and maintaining relationships. For autistic and gender minority youth, this impact can be even more pronounced. These youths often rely on digital platforms to find communities and support networks that may be lacking in their immediate environments. While these online communities can offer vital lifelines, they can also expose these young people to harmful content, and difficult social situations without appropriate support to navigate them, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and isolation.

The Anxious Generation

Anxiety and depression are rising among Gen Z and Gen Alpha, earning them the moniker “The Anxious Generation.” Several factors contribute to this trend, with technology playing a central role (1). Social media platforms often create a highlight reel effect, leading to feelings of inadequacy and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) (2). Cyberbullying adds another layer of stress, especially for girls who are more likely to be targeted (3). Boys, on the other hand, might experience anxiety from competitive gaming environments (4).

Gender differences also emerge in anxiety’s manifestation. Girls are more prone to internalizing disorders (5), while boys may display externalizing behaviors like aggression (6). Understanding these nuances is crucial for providing appropriate support.

Unique Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent and Gender Minority Youth

Autistic, ADHD and gender minority youth face unique challenges at the intersection of identity, mental health, and societal pressures. These include:

• Social Isolation: While social media offers a space for connection, it can also isolate individuals from real-world interactions, which are crucial for developing social skills.
• Bullying and Discrimination: Online platforms can be breeding grounds for bullying and discriminatory behavior, which can severely impact self-esteem and mental health.
• Identity Formation: The pressure to conform or the struggle for acceptance can make the already difficult process of identity formation even more challenging for these youths.

The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media

Social media can be both a sanctuary and a source of stress for youth today. On one hand, it offers a space to connect with like-minded individuals, access resources, and express their true selves. On the other hand, the same platforms can expose them to negative comments, unrealistic standards, and online harassment. There’s also very little legal protection for minors (read more here). This duality makes it essential for parents and mental health professionals to monitor and guide their online activities carefully.

Academic Pressures and the Educational System

Academic pressures can be overwhelming for any student, but autistic and gender minority youth often face additional hurdles. Now schools implement a computer-heavy curriculum, which can naturally offer another distracting element to an already distracting environment, presenting a real challenge to our neurodivergent kids. Traditional educational systems may not be inclusive or accommodating of their unique needs, leading to increased stress and anxiety. This can include:

• Lack of Understanding: Educators may not fully understand or accommodate the sensory and social needs of autistic students or the identity-related needs of gender minority students or how to manage how screens present an even bigger challenge to neurodivergent or socially disconnected kids and teens.
• Rigid Curriculums: Traditional curriculums may not offer the flexibility required for these students to thrive. At times, children might need to be empowered to move quickly through the curriculum to maintain motivation, but they are often stagnated when they are achieving well and teachers don’t often notice to present new learning challenges. Unfortunately, this paired with an accessibility to YouTube or smartphones in the classroom can present a real challenge for teen focus.
• Peer Interaction: Social dynamics in schools can be tough to navigate, especially for those who feel different or marginalized. Autistic and gender minority students may struggle to make connections with their peers, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Sometimes the use of computers in classes can serve as a cloak so that this youth aren’t faced with the appropriate challenges or situations to find their optical social group.

How Educators Can Fight Youth Anxiety in a Screen-Based Education

These challenges highlight the need for a more inclusive and accommodating educational system that supports the unique needs of autistic and gender minority youth. In order to do so, it is crucial for schools to:

• Provide Sensory Support: Educators should have a better understanding of sensory processing issues and how they impact learning. They should work alongside occupational therapists to create sensory-friendly classrooms and offer sensory breaks for students who require them. Classroom settings should have an ability to safely maintain smartphones and tablets throughout the learning exercises to minimize distractions. Additionally, instructors should intentionally plan non-technological learning activities and movement-based activities to promote focus in all of their students.
• Offer Flexible Learning Options: Curriculums should be designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to move ahead when they are ready and not holding them back when they are excelling. Additionally, offering alternative learning methods such as visual aids or hands-on activities can help engage neurodivergent learners. Something that may support student learning is offering all exams and quizzes in a physical format, instead of just on a computer.
• Facilitate Inclusive Social Interactions: Schools should implement programs that promote inclusivity and understanding among students, especially amongst those with similar interests. This can include peer mentorship programs, social skills groups, and diversity training for all students. Providing safe spaces for all students to express themselves without fear of discrimination.

How Family Dynamics and Support Systems Can Reduce Youth Anxiety

Family support plays a crucial role in the mental wellness of autistic and gender minority youth. Understanding and acceptance within the home environment can significantly mitigate the negative impacts of external pressures. Strategies to foster a supportive family dynamic include:

• Screen Hygiene: Parents are in charge of setting up the culture around screens for their household. Remember that screens are privileges and you get to decide the decorum in the houses and be ready to enforce consequences when the rules aren’t followed. This may look like having a single monitored charging station in a house where all family members set their devices up to charge at a certain time at night. Your family could establish screen time limits around use each day that are monitored by parents. Be the model by following by these rules and championing for the benefits of enforcing good screen hygiene.
• Open Communication: Encourage open and honest conversations about their feelings and experiences. Remember that technology is here to stay, but our youth need support in interpreting the overload of information they will likely have exposure to. It’s important to emphasize a non-judgmental tone when your child wants to talk to you about something. Make sure to let your child know that you are there to talk about anything they might see and want them to come to you.
• Inclusive Activities: Engage in activities that are inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, helping build a sense of belonging. While some of these activities may be screen based (e.g., playing Mario Party together, watching YouTube videos), make sure to include non-negotiable screen-free time to connect as a family. Having a “phone prison” is a great ritual to set up for these times.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of screen use is challenging for any young person, but autistic and gender minority youth face a unique set of hurdles. By understanding the impact of a phone-based childhood, recognizing the specific challenges these youths encounter, and implementing tailored support strategies, we can help them thrive mentally, socially, and emotionally.

If you’re a parent or mental health professional seeking guidance, consider booking a call with one of our experts and stay tuned for the course on supporting navigating your youth’s relationship with screens. Check out more of our courses geared towards supporting your parenting journey with ConnectEdU. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all youth.

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