The Anxious Generation, Part I: What’s Driving the Surge in Youth Anxiety?

In this episode of ArkBar OnAir: President’s Mic, Arkansas Bar Association President Jamie Jones Walsworth leads a timely and thought-provoking discussion of The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt.

Focusing on the first half of the book, the conversation explores Haidt’s central argument that around 2010, childhood fundamentally shifted, from a play-based experience to a phone-based one. Panelists examine the corresponding rise in anxiety, depression, and self-harm among teenagers, and consider what this shift means for families, professionals, and society as a whole.

Bringing together perspectives from law, mental health, communications, and lived experience, the discussion balances research with real-world insight, particularly through the voices of parents and a member of the generation most impacted. Together, the group reflects on how technology is shaping childhood, the challenges it presents, and the role adults play in navigating this evolving landscape.

This episode sets the stage for a continued conversation, with Part 2 focusing on the remainder of the book and deeper implications for the future.

Featured Guest:

Natalie Ghidotti – Founder & CEO, Ghidotti Communications

Jennifer Donaldson – Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Arkansas Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program (JLAP)

Arden “AJ” Jones – Student, representing the Gen Z/teen perspective    

Podcast Pre-Roll

Post - Roll