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 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, ‚loss of community.‘
Kaplan argues that the decline in opportunities for play and the harmful impact of smartphone addiction are both consequences of the overarching issue of ‚loss of community.‘ He defines ‚community‘ as a mutually reinforcing web of emotionally charged associations and relationships, a shared set of values, norms, and goals, a common identity based on history and interdependence, and a shared ritual that celebrates the group’s past and future. Additionally, Kaplan emphasizes the importance of high reliability, commitment, shared authority figures, keystone actors, diverse skills and personalities, role models, inclusivity, and the ability to enforce behavioral norms within a community.
The concept of belonging to a community involves sacrificing some individual freedom in exchange for safety and support, a notion that may be challenging for modern individuals to accept. Kaplan stresses that children learn values and attitudes not through direct instruction, but through their interactions with others in their communities. When adults and older children demonstrate kindness, generosity, and responsibility, children internalize these norms and behaviors.
Kaplan asserts that local communities are essential for providing tangible support and comfort that online communities cannot replicate. While online relationships can complement real-world connections and facilitate interactions between individuals who may not have met otherwise, they lack the depth and immediacy of face-to-face interactions. Kaplan urges parents to prioritize building or joining local communities rich in social capital, engaging in neighborhood activities, and fostering connections through schools, libraries, and local businesses.
In conclusion, Kaplan underscores the importance of recognizing the unique strengths of real-world communities in promoting mental well-being among young people. By cultivating strong face-to-face relationships and fostering a sense of belonging within local communities, individuals are less likely to succumb to the isolating effects of virtual spaces and are better equipped to navigate mental health challenges. Ultimately, Kaplan’s insights highlight the irreplaceable value of authentic human connections in safeguarding the mental health of youth in an increasingly digital age.