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In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson is joined by Dr. Candice Odgers, a professor of psychology at the University of California, Irvine, whose research focuses on adolescent mental health and the role of smartphones and social media in kids’ daily lives. Together, they discuss what the evidence does — and does not — show about technology and youth mental health, and why the most popular explanations are not always the most accurate.
In this episode, they cover:
• What current research can tell us about the relationship between smartphones and social media and adolescent mental health — and why correlation does not necessarily prove causation
• How adult anxiety about technology can shape the way we talk about kids
• Why family conflict, school stress, and peer relationships are still central factors affecting youth mental health
• How adult anxiety about technology can shape the way we talk about kids
• Why family conflict, school stress, and peer relationships are still central factors affecting youth mental health
Key takeaways
• The research on social media and youth mental health is more complicated than many headlines suggest.
• Many studies show associations between screen use and mental health symptoms, but that does not mean screens are the primary cause.
• Family conflict, pressure to succeed at school, peer stress, and caregiver mental health are major factors that affect young people’s well-being.
• Tech companies should be held accountable, but blaming social media alone can distract from other urgent supports kids and families need.
• Parents can help kids more effectively by investing in relationships, routines, school support, and open conversations rather than focusing only on restrictions.
Creators and Guests
Host
Dave Anderson
Dave Anderson, PhD, is the Vice-President of Public Engagement and Education and a senior psychologist in the ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute. Dr. Anderson focuses on the expansion of our awareness-building and prevention programs while also leading initiatives that build the Child Mind Institute brand, foster strategic partnerships, and forge new relationships with policy makers and youth mental health leaders.
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Producer
Andrew Dearling
Andrew Dearling is the Digital Director at the Child Mind Institute, where he leads strategy and execution across web, email, social media, and digital campaigns. He focuses on using digital tools to connect more families with mental health resources, expand the organization’s reach, and drive measurable impact. Andrew combines deep expertise in content, platforms, and performance marketing with a clear understanding of how to reach people where they are, and move them to take action.
Producer
Chad Garber
Chad Garber, a seasoned Creative Producer with over 15 years of experience, shapes branded video, digital, and experiential content for Fortune 100 companies, agencies, and in-house teams to Child Mind Institute. Known for building high-performing creative operations, he led pro-bono productions to multimillion-dollar campaigns for brands like Verizon, Microsoft, New Balance, Budweiser, and FedEx. His sharp storytelling, deep production expertise, and collaborative leadership move ideas from concept to screen with impact.
What is Thriving Kids?
Parenting can feel overwhelming when kids struggle with anxiety, behavior, school, or big emotions. Thriving Kids is a podcast for parents and caregivers who want clear, honest answers about child and adolescent mental health.
Hosted by Dr. Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, each episode focuses on a common parenting challenge — from tantrums to school struggles — with practical strategies grounded in science.
You’ll hear direct, expert guidance from clinicians who work with kids and families every day.
New episodes every week, with companion newsletters for easy reference.