Many Generation Zs Feel Life Is Meaningless
Many Generation Zs Feel Life Is Meaningless
Do you have a child or grandchild born between 1997 and 2012? That child is part of Generation Z made up of today’s teenagers, college students, and young adults.
This generation is growing up in a rapidly changing world. Factors such as technological advancements, environmental concerns, political unrest, the high cost of living, limited job opportunities, and the impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic are shaping their views.
In addition, the rise of social media exposes Generation Z individuals to a constant stream of negativity and cynicism which contributes to a sense of meaninglessness and disillusionment.
Also, this generation is marked by a decline in religious affiliation and the questioning of traditional morals and values.
With these threats, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Gen Z is increasingly turning to nihilism to navigate modern life. What is nihilism, you might ask? The word comes from the Latin word nihil meaning “nothing.” Nihilism is a cultural mood marked by pessimism, apathy, pain and confusion, a sense of emptiness, a so-what attitude, no goals, and in some cases reckless behaviors. The general view of many of Generation Z is that nothing matters anymore.
Generation Z young adults feel that home ownership is impossible for them. They believe the idea of “work hard and succeed” is broken. This group has lived through constant crises such as 9/11, endless wars, school shootings, a global pandemic, and climate catastrophes. These crises have left this generation with a sense of helplessness and dread. For the most part, they reject long-term thinking and they hold cynical attitudes toward traditional institutions like church and government.
If you have members of Generation Z in your family they may have expressed to you at times that they feel they don’t matter and that their achievements will be forgotten. Likely you have observed some depression and a lot of anxiety in them.
This generation lives in fear, they express apathy, and they believe that the things that were promised to them regarding a good life aren’t available anymore. They have lost faith in major institutions; thus, they live with an absence of meaning and spiritual direction.
What can you do as a parent or grandparent of a Gen Z to help them? The following suggestions come from Gen Z counselor, Corey Norman.
First, listen to their concerns without judging them. Fully hear their experiences, concerns, fears, and confusion.
Second, encourage conversations about meaning, purpose, and values in everyday life.
Third, provide consistent routines for them that create stability in a world that feels chaotic.
Fourth, help your teen connect with supportive mentors, a church youth group, a young adult Bible group, school clubs, and activities that promote a sense of belonging.
Fifth, limit endless scrolling and online confusion by setting healthy boundaries around hours spent on social media. They have never known a world without the internet.
Sixth, praise their efforts, accomplishments, and growth. Don’t focus on performance or perfection.
Seventh, find a counselor if your teen shows signs of despair, withdrawal, or self-harm.
Eighth, engage them in discussions about mental health. Be quick to recognize signs of anxiety, depression, and stress.
Ninth, ask your Gen Z child what causes they care about. Generation Z is deeply invested in justice, fairness, and equality in all areas of life.
Tenth, be patient. Change takes time, and connection with real life grows slowly.
Most of all pray for your Gen Z child. Your prayers matter because this generation is carrying loads of pressure.
