There’s a growing concern about the ways in which the Gen Z generation communicates, and as a parent it’s very hard to discern what is normal and what is not. That’s what makes parenting particularly tricky right now. It’s sometimes hard to not only understand your child’s behavior, but also distinguish if there is something to worry about, or if your young adult is just behaving like those they see around them.
Gen Z’s are the first generation to grow up with the internet and smartphones and sometimes treat them like an extension of themselves. They are considered “digital natives” who gladly embrace tech and are highly fluent in how to use it to their advantage. Unfortunately for many, this knowledge can come with a down side and that is their unwillingness to comfortably communicate without feeling judged or looked down upon by their peers.
A recent Fast Company article found that “Young people who have grown up watching others scrutinized and torn apart online for putting themselves out there have been conditioned to avoid the appearance of earnestness or effort—even for an act as simple as conversing with a coworker . . . which can come across as “cringe.”
This effect is now spilling over into the workplace for Gen Z’s “The consequences of this fear—particularly in the workplace, which rewards visibility, risk-taking, and speaking up—are clear. A 2024 survey found that Gen Z workers are at higher risk of being fired, and 1 in 6 employers are reportedly hesitant to hire Gen Zers. The survey cites poor soft skills, like communication—possibly a result of isolation during the pandemic—as being one of the main issues.”
If you feel that your Gen Zer is experiencing the effects of this to a great degree, it may be time for them to seek counseling. Unfortunately anxiety and depression are now starting to show up as side effects of this troubling new trend of not communicating with others due to fear of being judged. It’s a fine line to walk, but our experienced and talented staff at Suffolk Counseling Services can help you to cut through the clutter and identify if mental health counseling could help.
Contact us today to learn more and take a positive step forward towards a better understanding of what your Gen Zer could be experiencing.
