Research on Generation Z: Why They Drink Less and Communicate Differently.

According to Vox: Generation Z is facing many accusations.

They say we are soft, too emotional, and cannot carry on conversations. We supposedly struggle to order a drink at the bar, dislike parties, and avoid small talk. Often, I find myself playing the role of defender for my generation during family dinners, especially at times when gifts are being exchanged.

But is there any grain of truth to these accusations? Are the moral and ethical values of our generation really significantly different from previous ones? And what does it all mean for society if young people really turn out to be more individualistic?

Key Findings

• Generation Z receives criticism for being considered more asocial and individualistic compared to previous generations.
• A new study by the Survey Center on American Life shows that young people today prioritize morality and ethics over social connections in terms of personal needs.
• Young women have more open views on issues related to alcohol and casual sex than young men.
• These changes indicate that Generation Z is undergoing a real transformation.

To explore these questions and determine whether it is worth worrying about Generation Z's disinterest in alcohol or heavy conversations, I spoke with Daniel A. Cox, the director of the Survey Center at the American Enterprise Institute, who specializes in Generation Z research and American families.

“Whether you’re talking about educational institutions, political institutions, or religious institutions,” he told me, “we need people to come into these places and not think that they’re the most important person in the room.” Our conversation has been edited for clarity and length.

You published a new report that examines the moral and ethical views of young Americans today. What are the main findings?

Today we observe an individualistic orientation that permeates various aspects of life. Americans are increasingly checking whether something serves their personal needs, viewing institutions and relationships merely as means to achieve their goals. This reflects a fundamental shift in society, especially among the youth.

Young people desire flexibility and express this by 'not communicating' with those who do not meet their emotional needs. They find it acceptable to end relationships if they do not bring a sense of satisfaction, rather than trying to resolve issues in challenging relationships.

Can we assert that the generation has grown up viewing polished narcissism?

This idea can be debated, but there is a truth: when we teach young people that they are the most important, we cultivate a culture that strives for personal achievements. This focuses on individual accomplishments rather than social obligations.

Does your research support this?

Yes, because this generation has grown up with a sense of personal significance. When we asked whether their parents considered them 'average,' most young people disagreed, seeing themselves as special. Modern parents invest more resources in their children, which affects their perception.

How does all this influence the change in morality and values among youth?

It creates pressure for self-improvement. Young people focus on themselves — engage in sports, follow healthy diets, relying on individual needs rather than what they can do for the community. Thoughts about building strong social connections and helping others are losing weight.

What contradictions do we see in young people's views on sexuality, gender, and socialization?

Interestingly, young women today assert that the right to freely express their opinions is a priority, even at the expense of others' discomfort. The transformation of cultural values, the reduction of restrictions on sex and gender, is reaching a new level. However, issues arise when this openness leads to destructive behaviors, and youth try to determine where to draw the line.

Because of this, it’s difficult to maintain familiar social norms: many young people face moral dilemmas in the online space, discussing their actions case by case, seeking endorsement for their actions.

What other factors shape the character of this generation?

Despite the dominance of free expression, men increasingly consider alcohol consumption morally unacceptable. About 27% of young men aged 18 to 29 view it as an abnormal practice. They believe modern business markets products that can harm their well-being, hence the demand for alcohol significantly decreases.

Furthermore, young people socialize less in traditional ways than before. In the past, alcohol consumption among friends was seen as an integral part of culture, but for the new generation, this is not the norm.

So, can this trend be linked to financial constraints?

The discourse around this issue is unclear. Researchers, particularly sociologists, might believe that each generation has unique issues. However, historically, there have been young people who also faced challenges with socialization. It seems that now it’s more a matter of caution than financial hardship.

Is there an observed rise in religiosity among young people?

Yes, but also in individualization. Today many young people practice religion for personal growth rather than as part of a community. This reflects a desire for self-help that existed in the past.

What differences have emerged regarding attitudes towards prayer and religion?

Young people pray less, but when they do, they often do it for themselves rather than for others. Only 46% of young women who pray do so for someone else, compared to 72% among older women, highlighting a significant gap.

How does all this influence the political views and identity of young people?

This explains the rise of young people's desire to identify as independent. Their critical stance towards political parties is driven by a sense of distrust. A combination of individualism and political polarization complicates the formation of effective coalitions and leads to political disillusionment among youth.