Generation Z, iGen or GenEdgers
are born around the turn of the century, usually of GenX parents, but some are born of our earliest millennials.
Educated and mentored by by their Generation X parents and teachers, they are some of the most fearful of our generations. They have grown up preparing for violent situations at school like no previous generation. But they are BOLD at the same time.
Some of the defining characteristics of this generation
Generation Z:
- Nearly all owns a smart phone before they need one. Owning a phone is a rite of passage and it defines their generation.
- Spends 9 hours a day, between school and pleasure, consuming data digitally.
- Knows more than any other generation that has preceeded them. They don’t really need adults to teach them things.
- Are more diverse than previous generations. While previous generations have worked on all the rights: race, gender, faith, bullying, this generation is more homogenized. Many are bi-racial or multi-racial. They care less about differences and are more focused on character.
- Survived the Great Recession and have known tight budgets and difficult times. They are caught up in a shrinking middle class and they have watched their parents and siblings struggle to land meaningful employment. They have seen and felt the tension of tight family finances.
- Are skeptical of the American Dream for their own future.
- Are more entrepreneurial with a more global world view.
- Born post 9/11, they don’t remember a time without global terrorism, without safety drills at school that might save their lives in the event of a terrorist attack.
- Attends church at the rate of 41%, which is substantially higher when compared to 18% for Millennials , 21% of Gen X, and 26% of boomers
- Calls themselves “Risk-averse.” They are graduating in greater numbers and on time. Teen pregnancy rates have dropped. They are not using drugs or alcohol at the age and numbers that previous generations started.
- Watches college students saddled with debt and they fear they will not get to go to college.
- Fears the environment is unstable and will soon be unable to sustain them.
What do the experts say?
According to Jolene Erlacher, author of the Daniel Generation, “Generation Z is the loneliest and most depressed generation on the planet today.” They are lonelier than nursing home seniors who are shut in.
Generational expert, Jean Twenge, says iGen (GenZ) spends so much time communicating digitally, instead of face to face, that they may be the first generation who choose the best emoji for a situation, but not know how to make the face themselves.
Journalist Henry Wallop says “Unlike the older Gen Y, they are smarter, safer, more mature, and want to change the world.”
How do we show love to Generation Z?
Your contact will start digitally, of course! But get face-to-face as soon as you can.This is a generation who doesn’t know that they depression they feel is from a lack of eye contact or sense of belonging. Expect some social awkwardness, but make them feel welcome with lots of face-to-face communication and thoughtful conversations. I use question games with this age group. Let them ask YOU questions too!
Mentor them well. Parent them carefully. Lend them your expertise. Advocate for them. Their loneliness, depression and fear can be transformed into action that changes our world into a safer, more respectful place.
I watched the speeches by a number of the students. They were a very articulate and self-aware group. I was quite impressed and think our world will be in wonderful hands as they take over. I like your thought that we need to get out of the way.
Very well written!
Thank you, Sandy!
Excellent commentary! I found the characteristics of this young generation fascinating and spot on. The more we understand the different generations the more we can all work together for a better world. Thank you Chris Moss for helping me understand the younger generation better today!
You are so welcome, Joyce! I hope we all find this information useful in the days, months and years to come.
Well said, Chris! LOVE this piece. My son is an activist in his first year at college. He’s unafraid to call our congressional reps and even call them out. I don’t always agree with his views but I love his passion and his desire to change how things work.
Kudos to you for raising such a great leader, Jenn! And kudos to your son who may be destined to change the world!
Wow! Truth! These kids are future leaders. It is true they know more than I ever did at their age and they have experienced more too! I appreciate your piece and for giving them such praise! Great job!
And you are raising two of them!
Chris
What a great article and at the perfect time. Generation Z is going to make a difference. Kiddos to all who stood up and said, no more BS
Thanks, Carolyn!
Dearest Chris,
Wonderful article, which was inspiring with my first grandchild, Henry, one, who falls under generation Z.
With his Mother, a Millennial, and Henry’s strength of attitude already, it gives me hope!
Once our current administration started, I have fought hard to be his voice against them (him.) I will continue, and it’s comforting to get a better of this bright & beautiful generation & proud that Henry will be a force within it!
Miss you, proud of you friend.
Thank you for responding Carol! May Henry grow up to be a world-changer!