Research suggests the 1960s and 70s produced adults who could self-soothe, entertain themselves, and tolerate boredom - not because their parents were wise but because their parents were simply elsewhere - Silicon Canals

"From the 1960s onward, there has been a continuous and measurable decline in children's opportunities to play freely, away from adult intervention and control. This shift has coincided with rising levels of anxiety, depression, and suicide among young people."

"Children were durable. The neighborhood was safe enough. And hovering over your kids wasn't considered good parenting. It was considered odd."

Contemporary childhood experiences are characterized by structured routines and constant supervision, unlike past generations who enjoyed unstructured play and independence. In the 1960s and 70s, children managed their own disputes and learned through exploration without adult intervention. This shift in parenting styles has coincided with rising mental health issues among youth, suggesting that the lack of free play may contribute to anxiety and depression. Psychologist Peter Gray highlights the decline in children's opportunities for independent play since the 1960s, linking it to increased mental health challenges.

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