3 Reasons Why Gen-Z Has A Lower Self-Esteem Than Millennials

In the ever-evolving discourse on generational differences, one aspect that has garnered significant attention is the noticeable decline in self-esteem among the Gen-Z cohort, especially when compared to their millennial predecessors.

While both generations have faced unique challenges and have been shaped by different socio-cultural influences, there are undeniable factors that have contributed to this downward trend in self-worth for today's youth. Here are three primary reasons why Gen-Z might be grappling with lower self-esteem than millennials

The Social Media Pressure Cooker

The Comparison Game

Social media has become an omnipresent force in the lives of Gen-Z. While millennials witnessed the inception and rise of social media platforms like MySpace, Facebook, and Instagram, Gen-Z was essentially born into a world where these platforms were already well-established. The constant barrage of curated lives, aesthetic standards, and achievements can inevitably lead to endless comparisons.

For many Gen-Z individuals, every day becomes a silent competition – to get more likes, more followers, or to live a life that's as glamorous as the influencers they follow. This endless comparison game can chip away at one's self-worth, making them feel inadequate or left behind.

The Quest for Going Viral

In the age of TikTok and viral challenges, the pressure to be "seen" and recognized has never been higher. For many in Gen-Z, the number of views or shares becomes a direct reflection of their worth. The ephemeral nature of virality means that today's sensation is tomorrow's old news, leading to a perpetual cycle of seeking validation through online metrics.

The Gig Economy and Career Uncertainty

The Ephemeral Nature of Jobs

While millennials were part of the transition phase from traditional employment to the gig economy, Gen-Z is the first generation to truly grow up in a world dominated by freelance, short-term, and often unstable employment. The predictability and security that came with conventional 9-to-5 jobs are waning.

Without the promise of long-term employment, benefits, or even predictable income, many Gen-Z individuals find themselves grappling with existential questions about their future and worth much earlier than previous generations.

Overeducation and Underemployment

Many Gen-Z individuals are pursuing higher education degrees, often with the hope that it will secure them a better future. However, the mismatch between the skills acquired in educational institutions and the demands of the real world has led to a scenario where many are overqualified for the jobs available. This underemployment can lead to feelings of frustration and diminished self-worth.

The Weight of Global Challenges

Climate Anxiety

While environmental concerns have been around for decades, Gen-Z is the first generation to grow up with the very real and immediate threats of climate change. The dire predictions about the state of the planet and the tangible effects they already witness can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

This looming existential threat, combined with the feeling that previous generations have failed to take adequate action, can create a sense of powerlessness and diminished self-worth among Gen-Z individuals.

Political and Social Unrest

The world that Gen-Z is inheriting is marked by significant political and social unrest. From widespread protests to polarizing political climates, the stability and unity that previous generations might have taken for granted seem elusive. Navigating these tumultuous waters can be disheartening and can contribute to feelings of uncertainty about one's place and value in society.

It's essential to recognize that generational comparisons are vast generalizations, and individual experiences within any generation can vary widely. However, by understanding the broader factors that influence Gen-Z's collective psyche, we can cultivate empathy and support systems that help address these challenges.