One of our coaches recently attended a training presented by the Growing Leaders organization focused on understanding and connecting with Generation Z. Below are the insights and resources that he gained from this training.
Gen Z consists of individuals born between the mid-1990s and early 2000s. This generation is larger than Millennials and Baby Boomers. This is also the first generation to be connected to the world by technology at all times.
The characteristic of Gen Z that is fascinating is that they prefer to watch others engage in experiences rather than participate themselves. This is evident in the large number of YouTube views of children opening and playing with toys, for example. Although most are aware of this phenomenon, the reason for this behavior is often overlooked: anxiety.
The presenter explained that by watching others engage in activities online, it prevents Gen Z children from facing possible negative consequences if they engaged in the activities themselves. By watching others, the risk of fear, embarrassment, and failure is eliminated. This is also consistent with this generation’s difficulty with emotion regulation and social skills.
So, how can we help Generation Z with this issues? Growing Leaders offers free resources, including “Five Helpful Responses to Teen Anxiety and Depression” to help us connect with our children.