We’re not just dealing with distracted individuals, we’re dealing with anxious ones.
In just over a decade, rates of adolescent anxiety have skyrocketed.
Jonathan Haidt’s research reveals the harsh reality:
Girls reporting “persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness” jumped from 36% to 57% between 2011 and 2021.
Boys rose too, from 21% to 29% over the same time.
That’s not a slight shift.
That’s a cultural sea change.
Yesterday, I had the privilege of leading a session at @AdventHealth University called Engaging and Connecting with Gen Z.
We explored:
– The impact of social media and the “phone-based childhood”
– Communication strategies that foster trust, not just compliance
– Why digital natives crave emotional safety but also real accountability
What really struck me during today’s session?
Gen Z isn’t looking for perfect messaging.
They’re looking for real connection.
It’s not about slick slides or flawless delivery.
It’s about creating space for honest dialogue.
If you want to engage this generation, whether in the classroom, the workplace, or at home, start here:
Build trust before teaching.
Ask questions before offering answers.
Authenticity isn’t optional anymore.
It’s the gateway to real influence.
Haidt’s data isn’t just sobering, it’s a call to lead differently.
Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgstrawser/
