'Generation sensible' risk missing out on life experiences, therapists warn
"They have been deemed “generation sensible” for their focus on social issues, healthy living and drinking less alcohol. But therapists say generation Z could miss out on a wealth of life experience due to their overly cautious attitude to taking risks.
Many young people increasingly choose to stay within a comfort zone of a small network of like-minded friends in which much of their social activity is virtual, according to mental health experts.
This trend has been exacerbated by the pandemic, which has led to more young people working remotely and socialising in person less frequently, the psychotherapist added."
*The way that socializing is occurring has changed, especially with the pandemic. People have become more anxious about the consequences of socializing in person. While being cautious has some positives, it can lead to other negative outcomes. People are missing out on life experiences and becoming more socially anxious when it comes time to socialize in-person. Are you someone who prefers to socialize remotely or do you enjoy going out and seeing others in person? Do you think this changed due to the pandemic? Share your experiences below!*
#Pandemic #Socialization #SocialAnxiety
Please find the full article at The Guardian. 💛
@fruityPond7887 Thank you for sharing!
@calmDew1576 Of course! Thank you for taking the time to read! 💛
@fruityPond7887 I think labelling an entire generation with a word like sensible isn't going to be a very accurate generalization. This generation has also been one that's referred to by risky challenges or dangerous acts (tide pods ring any bells for anyone?). Sensible is at least a less negative description.
I think if any older generation had the internet options in our youths, we would have socialized more that way too - all other factors staying the same. The pandemic is clearly a factor with what people do as well.
I think brining getting out of one's comfort zone and drinking together isn't a great combo. The things I saw (and some that I did) when I was a 'youth' and drinking weren't really good decisions.
I also wouldn't be surprised if cannabis use is up, especially when I think of how things are here - I know things have changed in the US too, but here it went from minor decriminalization steps to fully legal federally. Vaping wasn't a thing when I was younger. Edibles were around, but not with the options that exist now. It was illegal then, now cannabis stores are as frequent as liquor stores. It wouldn't surprise me if there's been a bit of a swap, particularly for those who aren't interested in smoking anything (with my health issues I had no desire to do any type of drug via smoking) and want to avoid illegal activities.
Getting out there, talking to new people, showing off your goofy dance moves, risking looking like a klutz when you fall off a paddleboard, etc. can involve getting out of one's comfort zone and taking some risks.
I think we can discuss those things separately without needing to be like oh, a generation plays it too safe, binge drinking is down, driving under the influence is down, etc. I think we should be applauding healthier substance use behaviours.
@AffyAvo Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I do agree that not everyone in a particular generation is going to be the same and every individual is different. I do also think that when individuals are with their friends, they do tend to act riskier and this can result in poorer decisions being made. I agree with the fact that this generation is probably using cannabis a lot more than previous generations due to it becoming more easily accessible. I think trying to define a particular generation by one word is complicated because there are so many individuals and so many parts that influence how a generation will behave as a whole. Thank you for taking the time to read and reflect!
@fruityPond7887
I admit I do prefer remotely. It has definitely changed due to the pandemic. I think I'm just an introvert at heart, I've discovered.
Thanks for the post! <3 🌿🌺
@innateJoy9602 Being an introvert and preferring remote work is totally fine! Some people just find that they are more comfortable that way. As long as you are happy, that's what matters most! <3
@fruityPond7887
What a gem you are<3
@innateJoy9602 Awww shucks! All you Joy!!❤️
@fruityPond7887 Thanks for sharing this with us.
Another amazing job.
@Happy900 Thank you so much Happy!! ❤️