1. Social media and Virtual reality
Social Media
For Generation Z, social media is not just a platform for communication, but also a whole world where they create and express their identity. Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and other platforms have become not only a place to share photos and videos, but also a hub for cultural and social interactions. The guys publish their achievements, share interesting moments of their lives and interact with communities of interest. Parents who grew up in the era of traditional media and use social media less actively may underestimate how deeply these platforms penetrate into their children’s lives.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
VR and AR technologies represent new facets of interaction with the world that are radically changing the way we learn, entertain, and even work. Generation Z actively uses VR headsets for gaming, learning, and traveling through virtual worlds. AR allows you to integrate digital information into the real world through smartphones and glasses. Parents may not always understand how these technologies entertain and educate their children, and why they are so important to their daily lives.
2. The evolution of language and online communication
Slang and abbreviations
The language of Generation Z is largely shaped and changed through the Internet and social networks. Abbreviations like “LOL” (Laughing Out Loud), “BRB” (Be Right Back) and many other acronyms and phrases such as “lit” or “savage” have become an integral part of their communication. In addition, memes and GIFs often replace words to express emotions or ideas. It can be difficult for parents to keep up with the rapidly changing language landscape and understand what is behind these terms and expressions.
Memes and emojis
Memes and emojis have become powerful tools for conveying emotions and comments in digital communication. Memes are often comic or satirical images that reflect current events and cultural trends. Emojis allow you to express feelings and moods by adding emotional coloring to the text. Parents may not always understand the nuances and meanings hidden behind these visual elements, which can lead to misunderstanding and misinterpretation of messages.
3. Education and career orientations
Non-traditional ways of education
Generation Z often prefers alternative ways of education, such as online courses, video tutorials and self-education via the Internet. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy and Khan Academy allow you to learn new skills and subjects at a convenient pace. This trend towards self-education and the choice of non-standard educational paths may look unstable for parents who are accustomed to traditional academic paths and diplomas.
Career paths and creative professions
With the development of the Internet and digital technologies, new professions such as bloggers, streamers and application developers have become in demand and profitable. Parents who grew up in the era of traditional career paths may be skeptical of these new professions and doubt their stability and prospects. Generation Z, in turn, sees these professions as a real opportunity for self-expression and success.
4. Environmental awareness and social movements
Climate change and sustainable development
Generation Z is actively engaged in environmental and sustainable development issues. They require companies and governments to take action to combat climate change and preserve the environment. Attention to environmental issues and support for sustainable consumption are important aspects of their lives. Parents who grew up in a less environmentally aware environment may underestimate the importance and urgency of these issues for their children.
Social Justice
Activism of Generation Z includes support for social movements such as Black Lives Matter and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. These movements are important to them, as they strive for justice and equality in society. Parents may not always understand or agree with the radical changes that require new approaches to social justice issues.
5. Financial habits and consumer behavior
Online shopping and digital currencies
Generation Z prefers to shop online using mobile apps and websites. They are also actively interested in digital currencies and blockchain technologies. This generation is often driven by the desire for convenience and instantaneity, which can cause misunderstanding among parents who are accustomed to traditional ways of shopping and financial transactions.
Subscriptions and services
Subscriptions to various online services and streaming platforms have become the norm for Generation Z. They pay for access to movies, music, and games instead of buying physical media or downloading content. Parents may be unhappy with this new approach to media consumption, especially if they prefer traditional ways of entertainment and shopping.
