Are Phones Rewiring Our Kids’ Brains?

Are Phones Rewiring Our Kids’ Brains?

I started social media trainings in 2012 when I noticed a growing problem: teens were getting smartphones too young and gaining access to sexualized content, online predators, and misinformation about mental health—all without adult oversight. At that time, Instagram was a digital playground for youth, and few adults understood the culture developing there.

Back then, there was little to no research on how this new digital exposure would affect developing brains. But in 2025, the data is here—and it’s alarming.

This summer, I’ve been reading The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. He explores over a decade of research and draws a compelling conclusion: smartphones and social media are rewiring the emotional and social development of Gen Z. As a counselor working with teens and college-aged youth, I see this every day. The top three concerns I hear from young people are anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles—often directly tied to digital overload.

Haidt paints a clear picture of a generation raised in “phone-based childhoods,” disconnected from play, nature, and in-person connection. Parks, bikes, and front porches have been replaced by endless scrolling.

I encourage you to read this People Magazine article that highlights Haidt’s research and suggestions. If you’re able, grab a copy of The Anxious Generation. It’s a must-read for anyone raising or working with kids today.

We can make meaningful change—but it will take all of us: parents, professionals, educators, and policymakers united in action.

Key Takeaways from the People Magazine Article:

• Teen mental health began declining significantly around 2012, just as smartphone and social media use became widespread.
• Jonathan Haidt presents data showing sharp rises in anxiety, depression, and self-harm among teens—especially girls—since the rise of phone-based adolescence.
• The core problem: Gen Z spends less time in real-world social environments and far more time in virtual ones, particularly during critical developmental years.
• Haidt advocates for delaying smartphone ownership until high school and social media use until at least age 16.
• He also calls for phone-free schools and a return to unsupervised play and face-to-face friendships.

What Adults Can Do:

1. Delay smartphone and social media access
   Wait until high school for a smartphone and age 16 for social media use, when possible.
2. Create tech-free spaces and times
   Set up screen-free moments in your home—like meals, drives, and bedtimes—to encourage real connection.
3. Encourage offline play and friendships
   Prioritize real-world social activities like playing outside, attending events, and hosting friends in person.
4. Stay informed
   Haidt’s book offers a powerful lens for understanding today’s youth. Consider reading it and sharing it with others in your circle.
5. Speak up
   Talk with your school leaders, local legislators, and other parents. Advocate for policies that protect kids’ mental health in this digital age.

Let’s Keep This Conversation Going

We’re all in this together. If you haven’t already, share this blog with a fellow parent, teacher, or counselor who might benefit.

Stay connected,

Ryan