PODCAST | Reclaiming Childhood in the Digital Age
In this meditation, Msgr. Fred Dolan explores the spiritual and societal impact of our growing dependence on digital devices, particularly among the young. Drawing on insights from Professor Jonathan Haidt’s “The Anxious Generation” and recent cultural trends, the meditation helps us bring to our prayer the devastating effects of our digital age on our attention, mental health, and spiritual life.
Listen now to reflect on:
• The transformation from play-based to phone-based childhood and its devastating effects
• The physical and psychological harms linked to Gen Z’s digital habits
• How constant screen exposure fragments attention and weakens human connection
• Four practical norms to reclaim childhood: delay smartphones, limit social media, phone-free schools, and encourage free play
Rev. Msgr. Frederick Dolan
Msgr. Frederick Dolan, a native of Bethesda, Maryland, was ordained a priest of the Prelature of Opus Dei in 1983. He has worked in Rome, New York City, South Bend (Indiana) and New Haven (CT). Since 1998 he has resided in Montreal and currently carries out his pastoral ministry in Canada. [ YouTube ]
