Children are not always honest about their emotions, so it can be difficult for parents to know exactly what their children are going through.
But recent studies have shed light on the emotional states and coping mechanisms of Gen Z kids, those born between 1997 and 2012.
The study, conducted by the Walton Family Foundation and Gallup, surveyed 1,675 participants between the ages of 10 and 18, along with one of their parents or guardians. The results revealed that while the majority of Gen Z kids feel happy on a daily basis, a significant number also experience stress, anxiety, and sadness.
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A group of multi-ethnic Gen Z friends pose together, smiling and looking into the camera. A study found that more than 8 in 10 parents feel confident in their ability to comfort and communicate with their children when they are struggling with emotions. A group of multi-ethnic Gen Z friends pose together, smiling and looking into the camera. A study found that more than 8 in 10 parents feel confident in their ability to comfort and communicate with their children when they are struggling with emotions. Read more Carlos Barquero Perez
Dr Lisa Damore, a psychologist who works with the foundation, told Newsweek that there are a number of important lessons to be taken from these findings, especially as happiness is the emotion Gen Z feels most often.
“Though pre-teens and teens can sometimes seem aloof, these results suggest that when kids are upset, they want an adult to listen, take their feelings seriously and give them a bit of distance,” Damore said.
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“Caring adults tend to offer advice, but our findings suggest that this is not what distressed children typically want,” she added.
The study found that 94 percent of young people surveyed said they frequently feel happy, but 45 percent feel stressed, 38 percent feel anxious, and 23 percent feel sad.
Statistics show that these negative feelings are especially prevalent among girls and teenagers, with black youth reporting these feelings less often.
One of the key findings from the survey is that Gen Zers want their parents to support them in times of emotional distress.
62% would rather their parents listen than ask for advice, and 56% would like them to be open to anything.
“When preteens and teens are upset, they turn to a variety of adaptive strategies to help them manage their emotions,” D’Amour told Newsweek.
When it comes to calming themselves, Gen Z has a wide variety of coping mechanisms, with listening to music being the most popular (58%), followed by playing video games and talking with friends (both 45%).
“Adults often underestimate the emotional value to teens of listening to music, distracting themselves with video games, and connecting with friends,” Damore said, “but these are all effective ways for teens to manage uncomfortable feelings.”
Additionally, the survey revealed that a third of Gen Zers feel pressured to be perfect, with this feeling especially prevalent among girls.
The study calls for a balanced approach to emotional support that emphasizes listening and empathy over direct intervention.
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom, seeking common ground and finding connections.
