The younger generation today often faces criticism from older generations, who perceive them as having an easier time navigating life. This has led to a shift in how young people approach various aspects of life, including adulthood and financial independence, often at a slower pace than in the past. This list explores various trends and norms that today’s youth are increasingly pushing back against, reflecting their changing values and priorities.
Traditional Gender Roles
Today’s youth are resisting traditional gender roles, encouraging more diversity in the world. This is supported by Time, which writes, “In a 2019 poll, two-thirds of young adults said they had become increasingly supportive of transgender rights over the last five years.” They know it’s important to embrace gender identities and expressions.
Rigid Educational Systems
The youth of today have been criticizing the standardized testing and rote learning that come with today’s educational systems. Instead, they want a more holistic approach to education. This has meant young people are pushing for educational reforms that foster creativity and critical thinking.
Over-Parenting
Young adults don’t want to feel controlled by their parents; they want as much freedom as possible. This is supported by Raising Children, which writes, “Independence for pre-teens and teenagers is about trying new things, taking on more responsibility, making decisions by themselves, and working out who they are and what they want to be.”
Excessive Materialism
The youth have a critique of materialism and overspending. This consumer culture has a huge impact on modern society, particularly in the form of over-indulgence. Instead, today’s youth prefer minimalism and purchasing sustainable products. They’ll support ethical and socially responsible brands and purchase as much as possible from them.
Traditional Career Paths
Worklife writes, “Gen Zers are forcing employers to evolve their ways of working. And rather than lamenting today’s youth, older business leaders would be wise to accommodate the workforce’s youngest generation better.” Young adults prefer meaningful jobs to anything high-paying. Many are now opting for entrepreneurial and initiative career options.
Rigid Social Norms
There’s been more questioning of societal norms and traditions by today’s youth. They advocate for inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of life. There’s now a resistance to conforming to expectations that are based on age, race, or gender. The younger generation has become more active in trying to correct rigid social norms, for example, through protests.
Limits on Free Expression
The youth want the ability to express themselves. This is supported by the Council of Europe, which writes, “You have the right to freely express your views and participate in society.” It’s important that the younger generation can say what they need to say with the support in place for sensitive topics.
Outdated Political Systems
The younger generation has a desire for more democratic and participatory political processes. The youth have recently expressed criticism over the inefficiency of today’s politics. They want more inclusivity and equality, and this has caused larger participation in activism and social movements asking for political change.
Digital Overload
Even though the youth of today have grown up with digital technologies, they’re still aware that too much of it can be a bad thing. Negative effects can come with excessive screen time, leaving them with a preference for in-person conversations. Many even have regular digital detoxes to help their mental health.
Traditional Media Consumption
The Guardian writes, “Watching traditional TV channels has almost stopped among younger viewers, with 90% of 18- to 24-year-olds heading straight to their favorite streaming service.” Younger people are shifting away from television channels and the radio and instead opting for online streaming services. It allows for a more customized approach to entertainment.
Inflexible Work Environments
The youth of today don’t want to be stuck in a traditional 9–5 office job. There’s a higher demand for remote work, especially since the coronavirus pandemic. Remote working allows for more flexible schedules and the comfort of not having to commute. There’s also a higher emphasis on workplaces supporting mental health needs
Fast Fashion
There’s been a growing awareness of the impacts fast fashion has on the world. The younger generation is choosing not to accept it due to the environmental issues it creates, especially around waste. There’s now a preference for second-hand and sustainable options, helping to promote responsibility and reduce waste.
Financial Challenges
Today’s youth know there could be difficulties in saving for the future as the economy has had so many ups and downs. There will be challenges when it comes to paying for college or buying a home, and this means many of today’s youth are choosing not to do that.
Zero Human Rights Participation
The youth of today know it’s important to be educated not only in their own culture but also in other cultures. UNESCO has been doing lots of work to ensure the youth participate in cultural life, putting emphasis on peace, non-violence, and the appreciation of cultural diversity.
Rejection of Capitalism
The Conversation writes, “There’s growing evidence that today’s young adults, ranging in age from 18 to 29 or so, are strongly dissatisfied with other fundamental aspects of our political and economic system.” Today’s youth would rather explore alternative economic structures, like employee ownership, and engage themselves more in economic activism.
Not Helping With Climate Change
There’s recently been a heightened awareness of the effects of climate change, and this has caused the youth to be more involved in activism. They want to reject any policies that could be harmful to the environment and instead opt for eco-friendly alternatives and a more sustainable lifestyle.
Disregard for Mental Health
Mental health is becoming more and more important. There’s now an increased awareness of mental health issues and a demand for better support systems, especially in schools and workplaces. The youth have also put emphasis on self-care and want to ensure they have a work-life balance.