This video features a discussion between Dr. Candice Aers and Dr. Jonathan Haidt, moderated by Dr. Bethany Teachman, exploring the complex relationship between social media use and youth mental health. The speakers present differing perspectives on the extent of the youth mental health crisis, the role of technology, and the interpretation of research findings. They also discuss potential policy solutions, the importance of digital literacy, and the need for better-designed online spaces for young people.
The key disagreements between Dr. Candice Aers and Dr. Jonathan Haidt revolve around:
Causation vs. Correlation and Effect Size: Dr. Haidt believes the evidence strongly indicates that social media and phone-based childhood are causing significant harm to youth mental health, citing internal company documents, eyewitness testimony, and specific studies. Dr. Aers, while acknowledging harms and the need for company improvement, argues that the research, particularly correlational studies, shows only small associations, and that pre-existing mental health struggles often predict social media use (reverse causality). She believes the "blender effect" in research dilutes findings and that the impact is often exaggerated.
The Nature of the "Crisis": Dr. Haidt views the rise in youth mental health issues as a "great rewiring of childhood" directly linked to the advent of modern social media. Dr. Aers acknowledges the mental health challenges but emphasizes that factors like increased willingness to report issues, better access to care, and the adult mental health crisis also play significant roles, and that social media is not necessarily the primary driver for all youth.
Policy Solutions (Bans vs. Digital Literacy/Age Limits): Dr. Haidt advocates for stricter age limits (e.g., no social media until 16, delayed smartphone access) and phone-free schools, believing these are necessary interventions. Dr. Aers is wary of outright bans, arguing they can be blunt instruments with unintended consequences and equity issues. She favors focusing on digital literacy, empowering teachers and parents, and improving existing platforms rather than broad restrictions, though she agrees that current age verification is insufficient.
Interpretation of the Early Internet vs. Modern Social Media: Dr. Haidt distinguishes between the early, more open internet of the 90s (which he sees as beneficial) and the current landscape dominated by algorithm-driven, for-profit social media companies, which he believes are inherently problematic for youth. Dr. Aers tends to view the digital world more holistically and emphasizes that young people use these platforms for connection and information, and that shutting them out could be detrimental.
