Happy Fourth of July! It is time to get outside, and here is why! In today’s podcast Dr. Bray is sharing recent data that reveals a significant decline in face-to-face socializing, especially among American men and teenagers. Analysis by The Atlantic's Derek Thompson shows that American men engage in one-third less face-to-face social interactions than twenty years ago, while teenagers' in-person socializing has nearly halved since 2003. This reduction has serious mental health implications, contributing to increased rates of loneliness, anxiety, and depression among young adults.

The rise of digital communication has made virtual interactions more accessible but has also created barriers to essential face-to-face developmental experiences. Neuroscience highlights that our brains are wired for social interaction, and a lack of it can impede critical social skill development.

To counteract this trend, Dr. Bray is discussing why it is essential to encourage young people to venture beyond their digital comfort zones. Activities like sports, camping, and community service offer real-world interactions and challenges necessary for growth. Parents and mentors play a crucial role in fostering environments that promote exploration, risk-taking, and face-to-face connections, helping young men and women develop into well-rounded, autonomous adults. Get them out of the house, and they might have some fun!

Enjoy the holiday and maximize this opportunity to reconnect with friends and family in person.

QUOTES BY DR. BRAY  “Today’s teenagers get together about half as much as 2 decades ago.” “The less experience you have in being independent, the less capable you become of escaping the life of dependence; a life that is small, sequestered, and anxious.” “Invite young people into a bigger life than they currently have.”