Is Parenting (and Growing Up) Really Harder Today?

Parenting has always come with challenges, but in 2024, many parents are wondering: Is it truly harder today than when we were kids?

The answer seems to be yes. Raising children today presents unique difficulties that Gen X and Millennials didn’t face.

Between the explosion of technology, mounting academic pressures, mental health concerns, and social media risks, the landscape has shifted, making parenting more complex than ever.

Technology: A Double-Edged Sword

When we were growing up, technology was limited to TV and occasional video games. Social media wasn’t a factor, and much of our free time was spent outdoors or interacting with friends face-to-face.

Today, kids are immersed in a digital world from a young age. From smartphones to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, they’re exposed to a constant flow of information and interaction.

According to PEW Research, 69% of parents believe that technology has made parenting harder. Social media introduces kids to social comparison, online bullying, and unrealistic portrayals of life, all of which can contribute to anxiety and low self-esteem.

Managing these online risks has become a key responsibility for parents, who must also guide their children to use technology positively.

Practical Tip:

• Create Tech-Free Times: Set designated periods when everyone unplugs from devices, such as during family meals or before bed, to encourage more meaningful interactions.
• Encourage Media Literacy: Help kids develop critical thinking skills when engaging with social media, teaching them to question what they see and understand its potential impact on their mental health.

Academic Pressures: Higher Stakes, More Stress

The academic landscape has become far more demanding. Whereas we focused on getting good grades, today’s students are expected to excel in multiple areas—academics, extracurricular activities, sports, and even part-time jobs—all while maintaining a social life.

As one Gen Z student shared, "Adults expect too much from us. We need to do everything, all at once." This pressure to succeed across the board can feel overwhelming, with social media adding to the stress by making every success and failure visible. Balancing these expectations is a real struggle for many parents and kids alike.

Practical Tip:

• Foster a Balanced Approach: Encourage your child to focus on a few key interests or activities rather than trying to excel at everything. This helps them avoid burnout and develop depth in areas they’re passionate about.
• Talk About Stress: Regular conversations about the pressures of school and life can help your child feel supported and understood. Normalize the idea that it’s okay not to be perfect.

Mental Health: More Awareness, Bigger Needs

In previous generations, mental health issues were often ignored or stigmatized, but today, parents are much more attuned to their children’s emotional well-being. 71% of parents are actively involved in supporting their kids' mental health. However, the challenges are greater, with rising rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness often tied to academic pressures and social media exposure.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), rates of anxiety and depression among children have increased dramatically over the last decade. While it’s encouraging that mental health is now part of the conversation, the sheer scale of the problem can leave many parents feeling unsure of how to help their children manage these emotional struggles.

Practical Tip:

• Create a Safe Space: Encourage open communication about feelings and mental health. Let your child know it’s okay to talk about their struggles, and offer validation and support.
• Seek Professional Support: If your child seems overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek help from a counselor or mental health professional who can provide additional guidance.

Social Media and Drugs: A Growing Danger

Social media isn’t just a space for sharing fun moments; it has also become a platform for risky behaviors, including the sale of illicit drugs. In 2021, 77% of teen overdose deaths were linked to fentanyl, with much of the drug trafficking happening on apps like Snapchat. This reality adds a layer of concern for parents. It’s no longer just about monitoring real-world activities—online behaviors also need careful supervision to ensure safety.

Practical Tip:

• Monitor Online Activity: Use parental controls or regularly review your child’s online activity, including the apps they use and the interactions they have. Encourage open discussions about the dangers of online spaces.
• Talk About Drug Risks: Make sure your child understands the risks of purchasing anything online and how social media can be a gateway to dangerous situations.

Parenting Styles: From Independence to Involvement

Many of us grew up with more independence, often managing our own schedules after school. Today’s kids, however, are raised in an era of more involved parenting, often referred to as “helicopter parenting.” While this offers safety and support, it can also lead to kids feeling overwhelmed by high expectations.

Parents today face the challenge of striking a balance—giving kids the freedom to develop independence while still providing enough involvement to guide them.

Practical Tip:

• Encourage Responsibility: Give your child opportunities to make decisions and take on responsibilities, allowing them to experience success and failure.
• Support Without Overbearing: Be involved, but avoid micromanaging. Give guidance when necessary but allow room for growth and personal development.

Conclusion: Yes, It’s Harder—But There’s Help

Yes, parenting (and growing up) is harder today. Technology, academic pressures, mental health struggles, and social media dangers make the landscape more complex than ever.

However, with awareness, practical strategies, and the right support systems, there is hope for navigating these challenges.

At Bonfire Digital Wellness, we understand the complexities of modern parenting. Our school counselor-led coaching programs offer personalized check-ins and emotional support to help kids thrive. We’re here to ensure they feel seen, heard, and supported in navigating the pressures of today’s world. If you’re seeking extra support, BonfireDW is here to help you and your family build a brighter future together.

Want to discuss more with your dedicated Family Advocate? Schedule a call to explore further.

Enroll in our 1-month free coaching trial today (4 free 30-minute sessions) and embark on a journey towards holistic wellbeing and academic excellence.