Gen Z refers to post-Millennials born between the late ’90s and early 2000s. Not knowing a world without smartphones and access to the internet, they are considered to be the most digitally savvy and diversified generation.

Prior to the internet, human relationships and access to culture were limited to proximity; however, post-internet, especially post-pandemic, the scope of exposure to different worldviews has widened significantly. Gen Zers, who were born into a world with social media, have had the opportunity to learn about different cultures across the globe at an early age and have relied on diversity during their identity-formation years.

Global platforms of connection have allowed them to witness the experiences of marginalized communities, which has promoted their ability to think outside the box and be more accepting of differences. Based on the research done at Stanford University, Gen Zers tend to care about authentic, non-hierarchical, diverse, and collaborative social values. They have a pragmatic attitude about climate change, racial unrest, and political polarization.

“I believe that art should challenge societal norms and push boundaries in order to provoke thought and spark conversations.” — Timothee Chalamet

Social media changed how people connect and how we learn about one another, sped up the shift in linguistic trends, and created a global youth culture. As chat groups, instant messaging, and video platforms became a dominant form of communication, text talk, consisting of abbreviations, has bled into daily conversation. Gen Zers are also considered the “copy-paste” generation, incorporating recycled phrases from viral videos and memes.

The Baby Boomers were the first generation to embrace increasingly causal linguistic trends, often using words such as cool, man, and dude, even in professional settings; however, as the internet significantly altered the access, speed, and style of communication, Gen Zers adopted various linguistic mannerisms from previously marginalized groups.

As many conversations happen online, within the presumed safety of the environment, call-out culture has become much more prevalent among Gen Zers. Speaking one’s mind and being transparent about one’s point of view has been easier compared to previous........

© Psychology Today