Why Your Child Can’t Put the Phone Down & the Power of Persuasive Design with Dr. Richard Freed (#234)

Why do smart, caring kids get stuck in harmful digital habits—and why do even the best parenting strategies sometimes fall flat? In this compelling conversation, Melanie Hempe sits down with psychologist and author Dr. Richard Freed to discuss his groundbreaking new book and the manipulative force shaping youth culture today: Persuasive Design.Dr. Freed explains how powerful tech companies use behavioral science to keep kids scrolling, gaming, and glued to screens—often at the expense of their mental health, relationships, and futures. They dive into the research behind screen addiction, the myth of “safe” screen time, and the science that parents must understand to protect their kids.You’ll walk away from this episode informed, empowered, and equipped with practical steps to reclaim your child’s attention—and your family’s connection.In This Episode:What persuasive design is—and how it targets your childWhy traditional parenting advice often fails in the digital ageThe role of Silicon Valley psychologists in youth screen addictionReal-life solutions for pushing back against Big Tech’s influenceWhy family connection is the antidote to persuasive techThis is a conversation every parent needs to hear.Support the showDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoy the episode. Your feedback helps us bring you more of the content you love. Stay Strong!Get your copy of the BRAND NEW Adventures of Super Brain book!Start your ScreenStrong Journey today!Check out our Kids' Brains & Screens products.Want to help spread the ScreenStrong message to your community? Consider becoming a ScreenStrong Ambassador!ScreenStrong Tech RecommendationsCanopy—Device Filter (use code STRONG for discount)Production Team:Host: Melanie HempeProducer & Audio Editor: Olivia Kernekin