People who grew up without seatbelt laws, bicycle helmets, or parental supervision past the front door often describe their childhoods not as reckless but as unusually free, and many are still sorting out which of those things they believe

Research indicates a decline in children's independent activity is a key driver of falling mental wellbeing. This shift from unsupervised play to constant adult oversight, fueled by media coverage and organized schedules, has diminished children's opportunities to develop crucial life skills and a sense of control, contributing to rising anxiety and depression.