In The Anxious Generation, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt investigates the sharp rise in teen mental health issues since the early 2010s, linking it to the rise of smartphones, social media, and big tech. Haidt explores how the shift from a “play-based childhood” to a “phone-based childhood” has disrupted children’s social and neurological development, leading to increased depression, anxiety, and self-harm.

Drawing on data, Haidt outlines why social media affects girls more than boys and presents a clear plan to reverse the mental health crisis with practical solutions for parents, educators, tech companies, and governments. This book is a must-read for anyone concerned about the impact of technology on youth today.