“How Gen Z is Perceived by Older Generations.”
A lot of adults may view Gen Z in a negative way because of differences in behaviors in their social life and their way of communication. Some older generations are more prone to interactions that are face to face and are more familiar with traditional communication. Meanwhile, Gen Z heavily relies on social media and messages. Commentators usually see the dependence that teens have on technology as a sign of social disconnection, that leads them to be concerned that their social ability to form a genuine relationship may be hard.
In addition to this, adults see Gen Z’s mental health awareness, defense for social justice, and self expression as teens being self-centered and entitled. Matea Focht (a student of Santa Rosa Academy) states that “Gen Z is perceived as irresponsible and dangerous by older generations and millennials even have a term associated with Gen Z called the Gen Z stare.” The “stare is perceived as Gen Z being disrespectful and lazy. The value and action of positive traits are often misunderstood as seeking attention or being rebellious. In addition their work approach and flexibility often clashes with older generations’ ambitions and expectations, and work ethics, that fuel misconceptions about their dedication and maturity.
The differences in society and culture play a big role in negative perceptions. Gen Z usually holds certain views on issues like gender, sexuality, and racial aspects of the world, which is seen as disruptive and controversial by adults. Along with the environment and economic hesitancy they face, the differences lead to judgments that make Gen Z look anxious or and unmotivated. Overall these perceptions of Gen Z in a negative way are misunderstanding and come along with generational change, highlighting the understanding of open communication.
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How Gen Z is Perceived by the Older Generations
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