Gen Z: The Anxious Generation?

A new study by Montclair State University's Professor Gabriel Rubin reveals that Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, perceives the world as a frightening place. This heightened anxiety is linked to experiences like the Covid-19 lockdowns and a general feeling of cynicism regarding their capacity to enact change. Young people in the study expressed significant worry about social media, the economy, climate change, and other existential issues, contributing to a negative outlook.

The research indicates that Gen Z often views risks in black and white terms, struggling to assess them on a spectrum. Professor Rubin notes a "troubling shift" towards a more negative and scared perspective compared to previous generations he has studied. This perception of pervasive risk, while not always tied to tangible threats, significantly impacts their worldview and well-being.

While objective data suggests recent years have been exceptionally safe, Gen Z's subjective risk assessment shows a significant disparity. Contributing factors may include constant information inundation, heavy social media use, and the potential for heightened sensory processing sensitivity. The study underscores a generation increasingly stressed and concerned about global issues and their personal rights, particularly among young women.