About the Book
"[An] important new book...The shift in kids' energy and attention from the physical world to the virtual one, Haidt shows, has been catastrophic [...]." --Michelle Goldberg, The New York Times​

What do FM Zen's Members have to say about the book?
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​"My biggest concern was the mental health of my students and all of the people I care about; this was my motivation for picking up this book. I wanted answers. As mental health struggles continue to rise among young people, this book is crucial for understanding the connection between societal pressures, digital culture, and personal experiences--things that contribute to anxiety. In my opinion, this text is an important resource for parents, educators, and mental health stakeholders. The Anxious Generation focuses on the importance of empathy, awareness, and proactive support in establishing a healthier future for our young people. The takeaways in Haidt's text made me think about my grandchildren, my students, and young people across the nation. I saw them in this book; I saw myself in this book."- D.B.
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"The Anxious Generation lays out all the reasons why we are doing the right thing by banning cell phones in schools. While the first few chapters are a horror story of young people being manipulated by social media, losing interest in real life and incapable of concentrating for long periods, the end is a call to action to save the next generation from an epidemic of mental and social ills." - D. M.
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"As a parent, I had planned on delaying cell phones and internet access for as long as I can, hopefully until after 8th grade, but even knowing the dangers and our own rationale for parenting decisions, it's easy to question if what you are doing for your child is the right thing. When you see elementary school children scrolling on cell phones or hearing that your child is left out because he isn't in the group chat, it can be hard to stay the course. After reading this book, however, I feel validated in my choices, and I see that even if I do make choices as a parent, I can be empowered to change my mind or "go back". I also realized how reliant I also am on my cell phone, and after reading this book, I have been trying to do a better job of regulating my own screen time as well, and I can feel the difference in my own life and happiness." -K.H.