70. The Anxious Generation: Parenting in the Smartphone Age

In this thought-provoking episode of The Parent-Teacher Project, Alex Perrottet, Dean of Warrane College at UNSW sits down with Associate Professor Xavier Simmons, Master of Warrane College and Director of the Plunkett Centre for Ethics at ACU, to unpack the growing anxiety epidemic among young people — and how smartphones, social media, and modern parenting might be shaping this "anxious generation.".  

The conversation covers the importance of leading by example, the role of legislation in managing children's access to social media, and the powerful influence of parental modelling when it comes to healthy device use. They discuss the growing parental involvement in young adults' lives—such as writing resumes, attending interviews, and even negotiating grades—and how these good intentions can undermine self-reliance. 

The discussion also delves into risk aversion, the decline of in-person social interaction, and the need to cultivate resilience and agency among young people. They reflect on the role of reading and engagement with great books as antidotes to screen addiction and as a pathway to deeper reflection, imagination, and emotional maturity. Finally, Xavier shares insights from the Harvard Human Flourishing Study, shedding light on what truly contributes to long-term wellbeing—such as stable family life, strong social relationships, and cultivating meaning and purpose. 

Discussion Points:  

• Parental Modelling and Example: