For generations, there has always been a tendency for older generations to criticize the work ethic of younger ones. However, recent analysis suggests that there might be some truth to these claims, at least when it comes to young adults in Generation Z.
Psychologist Jean Twenge has dedicated years to studying generational differences. She has closely examined the data provided by the Monitoring the Future survey, which records the opinions of high school seniors on various topics, ranging from their daily routines to their perception of the world.
Twenge’s analysis of the most recent survey reveals a concerning drop in work ethic among 18-year-olds in 2021 and 2022. The proportion of respondents who expressed a desire to do their best in their job, even if it means working overtime, decreased from 53.74% in 2020 to a mere 36% last year.
In her analysis of the data for her “Generation Tech” newsletter, Twenge boldly states, “Gen Z really does have a work ethic problem.” Gen Z individuals are generally defined as those born between 1997 and 2012 and are currently between 11 and 26 years old.
Additionally, the survey displayed a sharp decrease in the percentage of high school seniors who anticipate extreme job satisfaction in their chosen careers. In the past two years, this figure dropped from 26.4% in 2020 to approximately 20.4%.
The survey also posed the question, “If you were financially comfortable for the rest of your life, would you still want to work?” Surprisingly, only 70% of respondents answered affirmatively, compared to 78% in 2020.
These findings indicate that certain social media trends, such as quiet quitting, lazy girl jobs, and other viral moments where young individuals challenge the traditional approach to work, reflect a broader shift occurring within Gen Z, according to Twenge.
The Shifting Attitudes and Sentiments of Gen Z
Social media conversations have recently captured a noticeable decline in work-life balance, suggesting a broader cultural shift. However, it is important to note that discussions around work-life balance have been ongoing for decades.
Interestingly, this reconfiguration of attitudes towards work might not only be limited to teenagers but could be happening across different age groups. The pandemic may have played a significant role in resetting attitudes towards work in various ways. Cultural changes drive generational shifts; they are not something that young people wake up and decide on overnight.
That being said, it is crucial to avoid drawing harsh conclusions about the differences between age groups. Labeling it as a decline in work ethic might overlook the fact that it could be an increased desire for work-life balance. It all depends on one’s perspective.
Beyond work-life balance, Gen Z is also challenging other traditional notions, such as the value of a college education.
An analysis conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis revealed that certain groups within Gen Z were more inclined to view college as a less worthwhile investment. Less than half of some Gen Z groups, including college dropouts, women, and Black and Hispanic adults, believed that the financial benefits of college would outweigh the costs, according to the Fed’s 2022 Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking.
However, it is important to note that while they may question the value of college, Gen Zers are not refraining from making other investments. In fact, a study conducted by Fidelity found that when it comes to women investing in the stock market, Gen Zers are leading the way. More women in Gen Z are actively investing compared to any other generation group, as per the study.
This generation’s shifting attitudes and sentiments extend beyond just work-life balance; they encompass a broader reevaluation of societal norms and expectations. As we witness these transformations take place, it is essential to approach them with an open mind and refrain from making hasty judgments.
