Teen Mental Health, AI, and College Admissions: Trends Parents Should Watch

What changed for teenagers this year, and what should parents be paying closer attention to? In this episode, Cathy and Meredith take a look at the trends they have been noticing across teens, schools, technology, and college admissions. Cathy and Meredith discuss how AI is affecting the way students learn, where students still need support, and why parents need to educate themselves on AI. They unpack the effects of social media and screen time on attention, critical thinking, and maturity, while also highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit and confidence they see in many teens today. They also delve into the uncertain future of liberal arts education, growing concerns about career preparedness, the cost of college, and the ways changing admissions practices are creating new stress for students and families. To find out what today’s teens are navigating and how parents can better understand the pressures impacting their teens, tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: [0:00:00] Why Cathy and Meredith are talking about the biggest teen trends of the year. [0:02:12] Learn how teens are using AI as a unique and effective study tool. [0:03:12] Discover the risks of giving teens access to AI without boundaries. [0:06:20] Find out how handwriting, note-taking, and study skills are changing. [0:08:36] Examine why today’s teens may have a lower ability for critical thinking. [0:10:09] Understand how social media is reshaping attention, reading, and free time. [0:12:19] Unpack the confidence and entrepreneurial energy many teens display. [0:13:17] Explore why liberal arts education is facing an uncertain future. [0:15:25] Hear why students are more focused on jobs, money, and practical majors. [0:18:30] Overview of the admissions issues affecting deadlines and waitlists. [0:20:00] What the future looks like for colleges and admission processes.  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Dr. Devorah Heitner Growing Up in Public The New York Times Episode 142: The Kids Are Alright: Good News About Today's Teens Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You Sh*t Your Teenagers Won’t Tell You on Instagram