There have been a lot of comparisons between Gen Zs and other generations, it's like they're the new millennials except, according to a survey by the American Enterprise Institute's Survey Center on American Life, there are stark differences between experiences of Gen Z teens from the previous four generations as well as distinctive patterns that separate them from the usual experiences other generations had during that period in their lives.
The most salient point is how many Gen Z teens and adults have become accustomed to loneliness. The reason being that this generation grew up during the pandemic years, which contributed to feelings of isolation and challenges in socializing with others. Add to this the fact that they are the first generation to be true digital natives. They have become used to being on the phone all the time or developing parasocial relationships with other people online. Moreover, Gen Zs also struggle with finding meaning in life as well as personal identity and a sense of self.
The survey also indicated that, despite a growing detachment to religious activity, Gen Zs are less likely to use drugs, tobacco, or alcohol, which is completely the opposite from previous generations. Gen Z teens are also more likely to have gone to therapy. All this may be signs that young Americans are going through a major cultural shift beginning with Gen Zs. There were more insights gleaned from the survey and you may read about them on Deseret News.
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