We Are Not the Snowflake Generation

The world is changing. All communities have their flaws, and those who quickly take offence by any small disagreement within them. However, that small group of individuals shouldn’t impact the view of the community. Some of Generation Z being incredibly sensitive to certain topics and worldwide issues does not mean the entirety of the generation should be considered ‘snowflakes’ (a colloquial term referring to sensitive people). The sole purpose of this article is to understand why there is a newfound and deepening split between the older generations and the younger.

The main argument around social media, as often used by some of the older generations, is that it influences the younger generation to change themselves. This may be true but it isn’t necessarily bad. Through the use of social media, many young people have learned more about their true identities and have begun to express themselves. This is also because those individuals can see that they truly are not alone in the world with who they are, unlike in the 20th century where there was major prejudice against minority communities. There is an ongoing debate as to whether the world we live in now is evolving or retreating backwards. Communities that are coming together appear to hold prejudice against others who may not be a part of their community. Bias is a main factor of the world we live in today as everyone seems to hold bias one way or another. An example of this is the LGBTQIA+ community. There was a group formed who named themselves the LGBQIA+ community who were an anti-transgender group. This group, amongst many others, are a prime example that everyone, even those fighting for rights and equality, can hold bias. This leads to the assumption that this may be the reason why some groups in the older generation seem to hold dislike towards the views of the younger generation. Back and forth arguments surrounding this make the Generation Z have the reputation of being sensitive ‘snowflakes’.

Despite the fight for equality in the world, which seemingly in some cases has changed the views of a small number of individuals, can this truly be possible if the split between different generations is damaging enough alone? If age was not a statement of who is in the right and who is in the wrong then maybe there would be progression. How could a generation only trying to show others their outdated views can lead to severe situations be sensitive? Obviously younger individuals can be naive and not truly understand the world around them completely, but ‘sensitive’ does not seem to be the right term. Generation Z seem to be the generation that can ‘change the views of the world’ and are often referred to as ‘the generation of change’. But change is something that requires an open mindset, something that some of the older generations struggle to understand.

The issues arising currently are the outdated views of the older generation in comparison to the politically correct Generation Z. The younger generations tend to live in the shadow of their predecessors, and it could be argued they believe this entitles them to argue against the world’s growing equality. One of the main problems with this is that it is expected of younger generations to automatically offer respect to their elders. Often Generation Z are perceived to be disrespectful, however, many of them feel as if the respect they put forth is not necessarily returned. A phrase most often used by Generation Z when regarding this is that, ‘respect is earned, not given’ and that, ‘respect should be mutual’. Although they have lived through tough situations and should be granted respect for that, surely this respect should be granted both ways? The younger generations have already struggled with not only the damaging effects of the pandemic but also the sudden increase in mental health problems. This is mainly caused by the damaging aspect a school community can have. Although school can be a safe place for some students, often there is not enough support for those who need it. As the world is progressing we are too. Becoming one with your true identity is more known and there is an assumption that suddenly this is Generation Z being sensitive. Arguing against this, this generation is only trying to show the world there is no such thing as ‘being normal’ and there should not be a stereotype around what is right and wrong with being who you are. Younger people often feel as if they are being left behind in a new world whilst the older generation appears to be taking control of the world we will grow up in.

The issues regarding the mental health of younger generations are shocking. Around 60% of teenagers suffering from depression are left to fend for themselves. Often the older generations appear to believe that most mental health problems are caused by excess screen time and the lack of exercise in most teens. However, although this can be seen as damaging to teenagers, this alone cannot cause mental health problems as such. Although cyberbullying is the main cause of the stigma around the usage of social media, arguably there is still some good in social media.

The impact some adult figures can have on members of the younger generations is also incredibly important. Many young individuals take on the views of their elders as that would be all they had known. Although the majority of this advice is beneficial and is necessary for children to know, opinions and ‘adult discussions’ are arguably not. Many reports and research show that the majority of issues in schools, including homophobia, racism and other forms of discrimination show that bullies frequently express views from comments they have overheard. However, there is more to this than what is on the surface. Most people who are considered to be ‘bullies’ are either struggling with their home environment or do not have a strong relationship with themselves. They feel as though putting their pain onto someone else will help with handling their emotions. Bullying is a major cause for teenage suicide and mental health conditions which can affect a person for potentially their entire life.