It’s quite ironic. In a world where connectivity is at its peak, the loneliness experienced by Generation Z stands out. The paradox of being more interconnected than ever and yet feeling isolated reflects the complex dynamics of our digital.
Here are the top reasons
24/7 ACCESS TO ENTERTAINMENT
Generation Z is constantly plugged into online entertainment, and social media gives them a false notion of connection.
“Before the internet and streaming services, you got to be bored. As such, you went outside, talked to neighbors, and hung out with good people, but not your favorite.” says one.
“People have replaced real, diverse communities for niche online sites and groups full of jokes and meta, and as such, they can explore more of their interests as deeply as they want but are faced with anxiety and the like when they get into the real world.” says another.
OBSESSION WITH SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media platforms, designed to connect us, ironically fuel an epidemic of loneliness, particularly among young adults. While offering a constant stream of interaction and engagement, these platforms often lack the depth and authenticity of real-life relationships. This leads to a paradox: feeling connected yet alone.
“The obsession with social media. No other generation other than later millennials had it. We all socialized in person.” says one.
LACK OF TIME
In today’s world, everything is so fast-paced, and everyone is so busy. We’ve lost touch with a meaningful community, and the internet doesn’t help.
ERA OF THE INTERNET
Today’s generation wants to do everything on the internet. Whether it is ordering food, or finding relationships.
“If you have even a bit of money, you never have to interact with other humans outside of work (and sometimes, even within work). We can order groceries, books, takeout, or any product we could ever want or need straight to our door without ever speaking to or seeing another person. We look for dates online, expecting we can connect with another person without leaving the house.” says one.
LIVING GLOBALLY AND IGNORING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
The desire to live “globally” is increasingly prevalent in today’s interconnected world. We crave diverse experiences, seek out international connections, and consume information from across the globe. This global mindset, while enriching, can sometimes come at the expense of our local communities and neighborhoods.
“Believe it or not, working and living locally creates a tighter-knit community.” shares one.
DIFFERENT HOUSING
While houses have traditionally been seen as the pinnacle of homeownership, apartments are steadily gaining popularity, especially in urban settings. This shift reflects a growing preference for convenience, connection, and a more compact lifestyle but lessens the sense of community.
“Apartment living, I believe, lessens the sense of community. Having gardens, streets, and shared property strips encourages collaboration more than dense vertical living.” says one.
EVERYONE IS GLUED TO THEIR SCREENS
Even if people are together, often, you will find everyone glued to their screens. Go to a restaurant, you will find couples and families on their phones instead of talking to each other.
“Everyone is glued to their screens and doesn’t know how to interact with each other. Everyone is “lonely” and “depressed” but don’t do anything to help each other out.” shares one.
CHOICES PROVIDED BY TECHNOLOGY
Technology connects the world globally. While that’s a good thing, it also provides too many options making people choosy.
“Growing up in the 80s and 90s, the world was completely different. I had to be friends with the boys in my neighborhood because there was no way to connect to the kids in other neighborhoods farther away unless our parents knew each other. So even the most asocial kids had friends – whoever lived nearby.” shares one.
INCREASED GREED AND FEAR
In today’s information age, we are bombarded with unprecedented content accessible 24/7. This constant influx, while offering endless opportunities for learning and connection, can paradoxically lead to feelings of information overload, dissatisfaction, and a never-ending pursuit of “more.”
“The demand for higher and higher profit means both parents have to work to make ends meet barely.” says one.
“As it becomes harder to make a living, crime goes up. Mass communication, in general, brings every bit of trauma right into our homes. We’re tired from being overworked, afraid due to all the violence, and don’t have the time or money to socialize.” shares another.
LACK OF PATIENCE
The current generation is characterized by an ingrained expectation of immediate satisfaction. This desire for instant gratification permeates various aspects of their lives, including work and relationships. In the older generation, there were fewer options and more options that gave time to build healthy relationships.
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This article was originally published on Mrs. Daaku Studio.