Smartphones (Symbol)
The emergence of smartphones in the early 2010s symbolized "a profound transformation of human consciousness and relationships" (Chapter 1). This technology altered interpersonal relationships, as well as people's perceptions of reality. Most importantly for The Anxious Generation, the rapid spread and normalization of smartphones marked a definitive end to play-based childhood.
Childhood Predator-Prey Games (Symbol)
Childhood games that involve predators and prey, like sharks and minnows, symbolize the dynamics of power and survival. In these types of games, children practice fundamental survival skills like running, hiding, and strategic movement. They are rooted in our evolutionary past as hunter-gatherers. Haidt discusses these games in Chapter 2.
The Word "Parenting" (Symbol)
In Chapter 12, Haidt cites the work of developmental psychologist Alison Gopnik, who wrote the book The Gardener and the Carpenter. She argues that children flourish most when they are free to explore. However, general parenting styles gradually shifted to emphasize safety and constant supervision. The word "parenting" itself symbolizes this shift in that it came to represent an entire industry that aims to simplify the complexities of raising children. The word did not come into popular use until the 1970s. Haidt (referring to Gopnik's work) discusses the changes in family life that occurred during this time. These include shrinking family sizes, delayed parenthood, diminished access to local wisdom, and more reliance on expert advice. As a result, parents assumed they could reduce the complexity of parenting to a few controlled variables.
Playgrounds (Symbol)
In an ideal world, playgrounds are a space for children to cultivate independence, resilience, relationships, and embodied learning. Haidt compares the unsafe play structures from the early- to mid-20th century with today's overly safe structures, arguing for a balance between the two. This could take the form of Adventure Playgrounds, which symbolize risky real-world environments where children can develop competence.
The Garden (Symbol)
Haidt discusses the work of American professor of psychology Alison Gopnik, who wrote The Gardener and the Carpenter. This book traces the development of formula-based parenting, summed up by the idea that the right training and a job well done will "produce a superior product" (Chapter 12). Instead, she advises parents to approach parenting like a garden: to "create a protected and nurturing space for plants to flourish.” This image embraces the messiness and unpredictable nature of raising children, and leaves space for delightful surprises.
