Podcasts · St. Josemaria Institute Podcast

Reclaiming Childhood in the Digital Age

1 Jul 2025 · 20 min

In our meditation of the week:Msgr. Fred Dolan explores the spiritual and societal impact of our growing dependence on digital devices, particularly among the young. Drawing on insights from Professor Jonathan Haidt’s "The Anxious Generation" and recent cultural trends, the meditation helps us bring to our prayer the devastating effects of our digital age on our attention, mental health, and spiritual life. Listen now to reflect on: • The transformation from play-based to phone-based childhood and its devastating effects • The physical and psychological harms linked to Gen Z's digital habits • How constant screen exposure fragments attention and weakens human connection • Four practical norms to reclaim childhood: delay smartphones, limit social media, phone-free schools, and encourage free play View Transcript Visit Show Page

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