New Documentary Explores Link Between Campus Culture and Student Unhappiness

‘The Coddling of the American Mind’ suggests that ideological brainwashing and self-censorship in colleges contribute to rising anxiety and depression among students.

• The documentary highlights students' experiences of guilt and anxiety tied to teachings on privilege, microaggressions, and identity politics.
• Former students describe adopting victimhood narratives to fit in and succeed academically, leading to personal unhappiness.
• Some students reported censoring their own views and speech to avoid backlash from peers and professors.
• Critics argue that colleges' emphasis on emotional safety and identity-based harm stifles debate and harms mental well-being.
• The film explores how these dynamics affect both minority and majority students, with some finding greater peace after rejecting these frameworks.

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