As Cincinnati therapists who specialize in working with teens and young adults, we have worked with people of different generations, and it’s clear that each generation has unique characteristics. Today, let’s discuss Generation Z, or Gen Z, and how they differ from previous generations of teens and young adults.
First, let’s define what Gen Z is. Gen Z refers to those born between 1997 and 2012, which means that the oldest members of this generation are now in their mid-20s, while the youngest are just entering their teenage years. This generation is often referred to as the digital natives, as they have grown up in a world where technology is ubiquitous. Here are some of the ways that this generation differs from teens of the past:
Greater emphasis on social justice and equality
Gen Z is growing up in a world that is increasingly diverse, and they are more likely to have friends and classmates from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. They are also more likely to be aware of and concerned about social justice issues, such as inequality and discrimination. This has led to a more socially conscious and politically active generation that is not afraid to speak out about issues they care about.
Increased focus on mental health
Compared to previous generations, Gen Z is more likely to openly discuss mental health and seek support when needed. This is partly due to the efforts of mental health advocates, but also because this generation has grown up in a world where mental health issues are more widely recognized and discussed. They are also more likely to view mental health issues as an illness, rather than a weakness.
Higher levels of anxiety and stress
Despite being more open about mental health, Gen Z also faces higher levels of anxiety and stress than previous generations. This may be due to a number of factors, including the pressure to succeed in school and the workplace, as well as the constant exposure to social media and technology. Many teens in this generation report feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with the demands of modern life.
Greater acceptance of diversity
Gen Z is the most diverse generation in history, with a greater representation of different racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. This has led to a greater acceptance of diversity and a more inclusive attitude towards others. Gen Z is more likely to embrace different identities and lifestyles, including gender and sexual orientation, and they are more likely to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities.
Increased use of technology to communicate
While previous generations relied heavily on face-to-face communication, Gen Z has grown up communicating through text messages, social media, and video chats. This means that they are skilled at multitasking and communicating quickly and efficiently, but it can also lead to difficulties in reading social cues and developing strong interpersonal skills. In addition, there is a greater risk of cyberbullying and other online threats.
Pressure To Succeed
One of the biggest challenges facing Gen Z is the increased pressure to succeed. They are often described as the most competitive and driven generation, with high expectations from parents and society. This pressure can lead to stress and anxiety, which can have a negative impact on their mental health.
Education and Work
Finally, Gen Z is unique in the way that they approach education and work. They are more likely to pursue non-traditional educational paths, such as online learning and vocational training. They are also more likely to prioritize work-life balance over their careers, which can lead to a different approach to work than previous generations.
As parents and friend of Gen Z’s, we need to recognize that they have grown up in a different world than we did and that they may have different needs and concerns. We need to be mindful of their relationship with technology, their attitude towards social issues, and their communication style.
It's also important to recognize the unique challenges that Gen Z faces, such as the pressure to succeed, anxiety, and the need for work-life balance. By understanding these challenges, we can better support them in achieving their goals and maintaining their mental health.
Because of this, it’s important for a Gen Z young adult or teen to have a therapist who has experience working with Gen Z clients. Too often, people will tell us that their previous therapist didn’t “get them” and they had to explain too much to their therapist.
We at Therapy Cincinnati have several therapists who specialize in working with Gen Z clients. They have worked primarily with Gen Z teens and YA’s to this point, and they get them. If you are a Gen Z client or have a child who is a Gen Z child, you can reach out to get started with a therapist who understands you or your child. By providing support and resources to help them manage their mental health, we can help Gen Z adults and teens navigate the challenges of growing up in a