On August 7, 2024, Seth Kaplan, a professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, made a compelling call for a ‚real-world community‘ to address the pressing issue of youth mental health. In his thought-provoking article titled „The Upstream Cause of the Youth Mental Health Crisis is the Loss of Community,“ Kaplan delves into the root causes of the worsening mental health of young people, highlighting the detrimental effects of ‚less play,‘ ‚the presence of smartphones in childhood,‘ and ultimately, the ‚loss of community.‘
Kaplan argues that the decline in ‚less play‘ and the harmful impact of smartphone addiction are directly linked to the overarching issue of ‚loss of community.‘ He defines ‚community‘ as a complex web of interconnected relationships, shared values, common identity, and rituals that celebrate the group’s past and future. In essence, belonging to a community entails sacrificing some personal freedom in exchange for safety, support, and a sense of belonging.
The professor emphasizes the crucial role that local communities play in shaping children’s knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Children learn societal norms and values not through direct instruction, but through their interactions with adults and peers in their neighborhoods and schools. When adults model kindness, generosity, and responsibility, children internalize these behaviors and strive to emulate them.
Kaplan stresses that online communities, while valuable in their own right, cannot fully replace the tangible benefits of real-world communities. Online relationships lack the depth and reliability of face-to-face interactions, and they do not offer the same level of support and protection in times of need. Local communities provide a sense of security, a network of social support, and daily interactions that nurture individuals‘ well-being.
In light of these insights, Kaplan offers practical advice for parents seeking to cultivate strong community ties for their children. He recommends choosing a neighborhood with a strong sense of social cohesion, actively participating in local organizations and activities, and fostering connections with neighbors through shared spaces like schools, libraries, and businesses. By investing in building and maintaining local communities, parents can help safeguard their children’s mental health and well-being.
Ultimately, Kaplan underscores the importance of recognizing the unique strengths of both real-world and online communities. While online platforms can facilitate connections and bridge geographical divides, they cannot fully replicate the depth and richness of face-to-face interactions. By prioritizing the cultivation of strong, supportive local communities, individuals can mitigate the risks of social isolation, addiction, and mental health challenges among young people.
In conclusion, Kaplan’s insightful analysis sheds light on the critical role of community in safeguarding youth mental health. By fostering strong connections, shared values, and supportive networks within local communities, individuals can create a nurturing environment that promotes resilience, well-being, and a sense of belonging for young people. It is imperative to prioritize the cultivation of real-world communities as a vital resource for addressing the complex challenges facing today’s youth.