Generation Worry - What Gen Z is really worrying about in 2024

Welcome to our multi-part series, "Generation Worry - What Gen Z is worrying about in 2024," where we delve into the complex inner world of today's youngest adults. As the CEO of the girls' charity, BelEve, I am Marsha Powell, a mother and an advocate for young women's empowerment. Through this series, we'll explore the reasons behind the label 'Generation Worry' but also uncover the remarkable ways in which this cohort is counteracting uncertainties with innovation and activism.

• The generation of young women today is more stressed than ever, hence why they have been labelled ‘Generation Worry’,? but equally they are also the most empowered – you need only look at the creativity, communities and activism on social media. What are your thoughts on this as a mother to young women and CEO of a girl's charity??

The label "Generation Worry" reflects the significant challenges and pressures that young women face in today's society, including academic expectations, social media influences, economic uncertainties, and global issues such as climate change and social inequality. These stressors can contribute to heightened levels of anxiety and mental health concerns among young women.?

However, it's also important to recognize that young women today are incredibly empowered and resourceful, as evidenced by their creativity, community-building efforts, and activism on social media platforms. Social media has provided a platform for young women to connect, share their experiences, and advocate for causes they believe in, amplifying their voices and fostering solidarity among peers.?

As a mother to young women and CEO of a girls charity, it's essential to acknowledge both the challenges and strengths of this generation. Supporting young women means providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to navigate the complexities of modern life while also nurturing their creativity, resilience, and sense of agency.?

Empowering young women to harness their voices, advocate for change, and build supportive communities can help mitigate the negative effects of stress and anxiety while fostering a sense of purpose and belonging. By fostering a culture of openness, empathy, and empowerment, we can help young women thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.?

The future is a great source of worry - The pressure of what’s ahead, after all, they can’t remember a world without a recession. ?

• The Girlguiding Girls’ Attitude survey has shown that 26% of girls aged 11-21 worry about not being able to afford childcare. Why do you think girls as young as 11 are worrying about things like this when they should be enjoying their youth??

The fact that girls as young as 11 are worrying about issues like affording childcare highlights the significant impact of socioeconomic factors on their lives, even at a young age. Several factors may contribute to this worry:?

• Family Dynamics: Girls may be exposed to concerns about childcare within their families, either through direct experiences or hearing discussions among family members. They may witness the financial strain that childcare costs place on their parents or caregivers, leading to their own worries about the family's financial stability.?

• Media and Society: Young people today are inundated with messages from the media, social media, and society at large about the cost of living, economic hardships, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. These messages can create a sense of financial insecurity and anxiety about the future, even among children as young as 11.?

• Educational and Career Aspirations: As children transition into adolescence, they may begin to think more about their future educational and career paths. Worries about affording childcare may stem from concerns about balancing future career aspirations with family responsibilities, particularly for girls who may be aware of gender disparities in the workforce.?

• Peer Influence: Girls may also be influenced by the worries and concerns of their peers, particularly if they have friends or classmates who come from families experiencing financial difficulties or who are already grappling with childcare challenges.?

• Lack of Financial Literacy: Many young people receive limited education about financial literacy and budgeting, which can leave them ill-equipped to understand and navigate financial challenges. Without the necessary skills and knowledge, they may feel overwhelmed by worries about affording childcare and other expenses.?

Overall, the worry about affording childcare among girls as young as 11 underscores the importance of providing comprehensive support and education to young people to help them understand and manage financial matters, as well as addressing broader socioeconomic inequalities that contribute to financial insecurity for families. Additionally, creating a supportive environment where young people feel comfortable discussing their concerns and seeking help can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety they may experience.?

34% of young women worry about earning less than men.?This is undoubtedly a pressure that disproportionately impacts girls?

Feeling safe? - From as early as 13, girls feel uncomfortable walking around where they live. ?

• How have we got to the stage where 63% of us have felt unsafe walking home alone??

The fact that a significant portion of people, 63%, have felt unsafe walking home alone reflects a complex interplay of societal, cultural, and individual factors. Several reasons could contribute to this alarming statistic:?

• Fear of Crime: Perceptions of safety can be influenced by media coverage of crime, which may amplify fears and concerns about personal safety. Even though crime rates may be relatively low, sensationalized reporting of isolated incidents can create an exaggerated perception of danger.?

• Gender-Based Violence: Women in particular feel unsafe walking alone due to the prevalence of gender-based violence and harassment. The fear of being targeted for assault, harassment, or abduction can significantly impact their sense of safety, leading to heightened vigilance and caution when navigating public spaces.?

• Lack of Adequate Lighting and Infrastructure: Poorly lit streets, deserted areas, and lack of infrastructure such as pavements or pedestrian pathways can contribute to feelings of vulnerability when walking alone, especially at night. Inadequate urban planning and maintenance of public spaces can exacerbate safety concerns.?

• Social and Cultural Norms: Gender norms and societal expectations may reinforce the idea that women are more vulnerable to harm than men, leading to increased fear and anxiety among women when walking alone. Stereotypes about who is considered a potential threat can also shape perceptions of safety.?

• Past Traumatic Experiences: Individuals who have experienced past traumatic incidents, such as assault or harassment, may carry lingering feelings of fear and anxiety when walking alone. These experiences can heighten hypervigilance and contribute to a sense of vulnerability in similar situations.?

• Underlying Structural Inequities: Safety concerns are often intertwined with broader issues of inequality, including socioeconomic disparities, racial discrimination, and access to resources. Individuals from marginalised or disadvantaged communities may face heightened risks and obstacles to safety due to systemic injustices.?

The issues faced by Generation Z are real and multifaceted. It's time for all of us to listen, understand, and take action. As we step forward, let's commit to being part of the solution, ensuring that our young women not only feel supported but also have the necessary resources to leap over hurdles with confidence and grace.

In our next instalment of "Generation Worry," we'll take a closer look at the coping mechanisms Gen Z is developing and examine how societies worldwide are responding to the cries for help and change.

Until then, I encourage everyone to engage with these complex topics, perhaps starting with some curated resources below. Together, let's encourage and contribute to a brighter, less worrisome future for the next generation.

Recommended Resources:

• Girlguiding's Girls’ Attitude Survey
• BelEve's Programs for Young Women
• Mental Health Support from Mind
• UN Women's Empowerment Principles
• Financial Literacy Resources for Teens

Join the conversation and become a part of the movement towards empowerment and change.