(NOTE: Information for this article was also sourced from both Bard and ChatGPT).
The dictionaries have chosen their “word of the year 2023”. I have chosen mine: it’s “Gen Z” though it’s not a new word but which very much fascinated me for many reasons, not least because someone commented to me that some Maldives’ youngsters are ignorant to the point that they perceive that oil fried breadfruit (“theluli banbukeyo”) appear as they are found on breadfruit trees.
However, it's important to remember that there are general trends which don't apply to every individual in Gen Z as people are shaped by various factors including culture, upbringing, and personal experiences; individual characteristics, therefore, may vary widely within any generation.
Says Mark Manson in his book, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a ****:
"The benefits of the Internet and social media are unquestionably fantastic. In many ways, this is the best time in history to be alive. But perhaps these technologies are having some unintended social side effects. Perhaps these same technologies that have liberated and educated so many are simultaneously enabling people’s sense of entitlement more than ever before...We don’t always control what happens to us. But we always control how we interpret what happens to us, as well as how we respond… The more you embrace being uncertain and not knowing, the more comfortable you will feel in knowing what you don’t know."
Pinpointing the exact origin of "Gen Z" is a bit tricky, as several names were popularized around the same time and the label's evolution wasn't instantaneous.
Here's a breakdown of the competing claims:
Early Contenders (2000s):
iGeneration: Rapper MC Lars used this term in a 2005 song and psychologist Jean Twenge considered it for her 2006 book (later titled Generation Me).
Homeland Generation: Author Neil Howe, in 2014, proposed this name linking it to the post-9/11 security measures surrounding their childhood.
Gaining Traction (2010s):
Gen Z: While no single source claims ownership, its usage gradually increased throughout the 2010s, appearing in articles and public discourse.
Shifting Momentum (2019 onwards):
Pew Research Center solidified Gen Z: In 2019, a Pew Research Center study analyzed Google Trends and found "Gen Z" overwhelmingly dominating other terms like "iGen" or "Homeland Generation." This cemented its widespread acceptance.
Therefore, while specific attribution is difficult, the credit for "Gen Z" likely lies in a collective effort. Individuals like Twenge and Howe introduced related terms, and broader cultural forces like digital technology and post-9/11 realities shaped the generation's identity, ultimately leading to the popularization of "Gen Z".
Gen Z, like any generation, has its own set of unique strengths and weaknesses. It's important to note that generational characteristics are generalizations and may not apply to every individual within a particular generation. Additionally, opinions about the pros and cons of a generation can vary.
That being said, here are some commonly discussed characteristics of Generation Z, born roughly between the mid-1990s and early 2010s:
Here's a breakdown of some pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
Globally connected and world perspective: The internet and social media have fostered a global community for Gen Z, allowing them to connect with people and cultures from all over the world. This broadens their perspective and promotes understanding. Due to the interconnectedness of the world through the internet, Gen Z tends to have a more global perspective and is often aware of and concerned about global issues.
Digital natives: Adept at navigating platforms, and quick to learn new digital tools makes them highly adaptable and valuable in today's tech-driven world. Gen Z grew up in a digital age, making them highly comfortable with technology.
Diversity and inclusion: This generation is typically more accepting of diverse backgrounds and identities compared to previous generations. They champion social justice causes and advocate for equality, making them agents of positive change. Gen Z is often praised for their commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and their acceptance of differences in race, gender, sexual orientation, and other aspects of identity.
Entrepreneurial spirit: Gen Zers are often entrepreneurial and independent, valuing flexibility and purpose in their work. They're more likely to pursue unconventional careers or start their own businesses. They are resourceful and more likely to pursue creative ventures.
Strong social awareness: They are acutely aware of social and environmental issues, driving movements for climate change action, and mental health awareness.
Pragmatic and realistic: Gen Z is often described as pragmatic and realistic, possibly influenced by growing up during times of economic uncertainty and witnessing global challenges.
Cons:
Overreliance on technology: Constant digital connection can lead to issues like digital addiction, and difficulty with focus and attention. While being tech-savvy is an advantage, there are concerns about over-dependence on technology, leading to issues such as decreased face-to-face social skills and potential mental health issues.
Short attention spans and potential for information overload: The fast-paced digital environment can contribute to information overload and difficulty concentrating on one thing for long periods. The constant exposure to information and entertainment through digital devices has been associated with shorter attention spans in some members of Gen Z. With the vast amount of information available at their fingertips, Gen Z may face challenges in filtering and processing information, potentially leading to feelings of overwhelm or misinformation.
Impulsivity and FOMO: Growing up in an era of instant access to information and services, some critics argue that Gen Z may have a tendency toward seeking instant gratification and the fear of missing out (FOMO) can lead to impulsive decisions and difficulty with delayed gratification or patience.
Cyberbullying and social media pressures: Constant online presence can heighten vulnerability to cyberbullying, unrealistic expectations, and negative self-comparison due to social media pressures.
Job hopping and unclear career paths: Traditional career models might not resonate with Gen Z's desire for flexibility and purpose, leading to frequent job changes and challenges with career stability. Some members of Gen Z are characterized by a willingness to change jobs frequently, seeking new opportunities and experiences. While this can be positive, it may also lead to concerns about commitment and stability in the workforce.
These are generalizations and therefore will not apply to every individual in Gen Z, and there is a wide range of diversity within the generation. Many of these characteristics are still developing and may change over time. Highlighting both strengths and weaknesses, however, may be important for understanding Gen Z's contributions and challenges - and not making generalizations or judgments. By acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects, we can better understand and support Gen Z as they shape our future.
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