最焦虑的一代，不是00后

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising mental health issues among the younger generation, particularly the "Z generation" (born between 1995-2012), attributing these problems to the digital transformation of childhood, primarily due to the prevalence of smartphones and social media [6][7][11]. Group 1: Digital Transformation and Mental Health - The shift from outdoor play and face-to-face social interactions to screen time and online socializing is described as a transition from a "playful childhood" to a "screen childhood" [10]. - Research indicates a significant increase in depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts among teenagers since 2010, correlating with increased social media usage [10][12]. - A bold hypothesis is proposed that the mental health crisis among teenagers is highly related to the proliferation of smartphones and social media [11]. Group 2: Supporting Research and Findings - Internal research from META (Instagram's parent company) found that one-third of teenage girls felt worse about their body image due to Instagram [12]. - A UCLA study showed that teenagers' brains reacted similarly to receiving likes on social media as they would to monetary rewards, indicating a dependency on external validation [12][13]. - Social media mechanisms, such as "likes," are said to weaken self-regulation and increase anxiety and social pressure among youth [13]. Group 3: Broader Context of Anxiety - The book introduces the concept of "digital reconstruction of childhood," linking the rise of internet and smartphone usage to deteriorating mental health among teenagers, but emphasizes that correlation does not imply causation [15]. - The Z generation is noted as one of the biggest beneficiaries of information technology, with 81% of teens believing social media helps them stay connected with friends [16]. - Factors such as economic pressure, educational competition, and changes in family structure are highlighted as significant contributors to the rising mental health issues among the Z generation [17][18]. Group 4: Historical Perspective on Anxiety - The article compares the anxiety levels of different generations, noting that the 80s generation has a higher anxiety index than the 00s generation, with sources of anxiety including housing loans, children's education, and workplace pressure [23]. - Each generation faces unique societal pressures, with the 80s generation experiencing significant societal changes and challenges during their formative years [22][23].