Episode 291: Raising Gen Z with Purpose in a Digital World with Stephanie Shackelford

In this episode of The Forgotten Podcast, Jami sits down with Dr. Stephanie Shackelford, a Senior Fellow at Barna Group, to talk about the power of relationships, purpose, and tech-free spaces for improving kids' mental health. Dr. Shackelford shares insights from her recent Barna report, Gen Z, Mental Health and Wellbeing.

 

Dr. Shackelford discusses the six themes identified in her research for supporting Gen Z mental health, including the critical need for tech-free spaces and consistent rhythms for connection. She explains that the youth mental health crisis, marked by skyrocketing anxiety and depression, correlates with the rise of smartphone availability between 2010 and 2015. Throughout the conversation, she offers practical advice for parents on setting boundaries, such as removing phones from bedrooms and dinner tables, and modeling healthy technology use.

 

This conversation reflects on how to cultivate purpose and meaning in Gen Z, arguing that focusing on purpose—using one's gifts to serve others—is more fulfilling than chasing happiness. This discussion highlights that half of Gen Z Christians value seeing Christianity promote good in the world more than knowing it is true. She emphasizes that in-person church attendance is a major buffer against poor mental health outcomes like suicide and depression, encouraging families to prioritize being contributors at church and cultivating a culture of service at home.

 

This episode is an encouraging reminder that when parents and caregivers approach these changes with a humble vision and start with small, actionable steps, they can foster deep connection and meaningful purpose for their children.

 

About the Guest

Dr. Stephanie Shackelford is a Senior Fellow at Barna Group. She has researched and written for nationwide research studies covering topics such as Gen Z, mental health, purpose, calling, and discipleship. She and her husband live on the campus of Eagle Ranch, a ministry for Families in Crisis.

 

In This Episode

• What defines Gen Z (ages 9-27)
• The six practical ideas from the Gen Z, Mental Health and Wellbeing report
• How the rise of smartphones is correlated with increased youth anxiety and depression
• Creating tech-free spaces and the benefits of being bored and connecting with nature
• The meaning of "thick community" and "embodied experiences" to combat loneliness
• Inviting Gen Z into a narrative of purpose and redemption rather than happiness
• The protective role of in-person church attendance against poor mental health
• Cultivating a culture of service and calling at home and in the community

 

Resources + Links

Learn more about The Forgotten Initiative

Learn more about what at TFI Advocate does