Z: A Split Generation

Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) was the first generation shaped by smartphone use and social media. And while a culture of activism and digital connection are common themes within this generation, the COVID-19 pandemic created two distinct subgroups with different ideas of where the world should be headed.  

The older subgroup, which entered adulthood before COVID-19, tends to have an empathy-driven, justice-oriented, and progressive worldview. This Gen Z subgroup was introduced to the workforce online, and frustrations stem from different expectations when it comes to workplace culture, flexibility, and office etiquette. The younger half of Gen Z spent their adolescence locked down and isolated due to the pandemic, with virtual learning, social media, and doomscrolling dominating their days. They grew up with unprecedented uncertainty about their future, and they therefore tend to blame institutional failure, untrustworthy governments, and a failing system in general for their misery.  

Understanding these differences within this generation is important for planners. Youth engagement is more important than ever, especially when planning with young people who want to have a voice and ask for transparency but distrust institutional credibility. Creating great communities for all must include the differing needs and expectations of young people.