Generation Next Podcasts

Self-harm is a growing problem among our youth who are using it as an extreme way to cope with distressing or painful feelings. This presentation explores the reasons that might lead young people to self-harm, the forms of behaviour this might involve and how to support a young person towards recovery.

No-one disputes the dangers associated with kids engaging with social media. But it’s essential we aren’t consumed by moral panic at the expense of understanding the potential that social media affords society. Dan will outline strategies that delegates can use with young people to enhance their digital literacy, understanding of the world and perhaps even their job prospects.

To more effectively deal with this increasingly common issue it is important to understand the psychological factors that lead young people to play games excessively or addictively. James will identify some of the signs and symptoms of gaming addiction as well as the risk factors that are particularly significant with regard to young people, and hence provide ways to better prevent and manage it.

It’s concerning to see so many boys at war with themselves and the world. Why are boys coming adrift from society? Why are they suffering such a keen sense of isolation? Why all the anger and confusion? Clearly there’s a serious disconnect between where boys are at, and where we need them to be. Is this because we still don’t fully understand their needs? Because we’re not sure about what male empowerment looks like anymore? What essential life skills are this new generation of boys missing out on? How best can we turn their very real sense of alienation around?

One in four children in Australia are exposed to domestic violence, with behavioural, cognitive and emotional development implications. Rosie will discuss ways to recognise behavioural symptoms of such exposure and how to support young people experiencing the effects of domestic violence.

Hetty will discuss the scale of child sexual abuse nationwide, what is known about offenders, and strategies that can help children stay safe. She will also  discuss the effects of abuse, how young children communicate trauma, and how to recognise and appropriately respond to cases of child sexual abuse.

Do the news agencies report or cause the news? Prof Douglas Gentile will provide a closer look into the media's role of young people's suicides, mass shootings, homicides and more. 

Organisations often realise the need for change but are uncertain where to start and well-meaning initiatives often fall short due to lack of planning. Travis will discuss organisational obstacles to change and provide practical strategies for tackling them so that meaningful, whole organisational change can occur.