Gen Z, those today aged 13 to 28, has very distinct social behaviors. Join the growing number of observors alarmed at these recent moves. This generation seems to be perfecting the much-maligned stink eye known colloquially as the blank, expressionless, creepy child stare. As their presence grows in such roles—whether it be police, public servants, or everyday citizens—the repercussions of this behavior are coming under greater examination.
As some reports have noted, this leads members of Gen Z to sometimes fall into what is referred to as a “thousand-yard stare.” This expression is an indication of a disassociative state, a time when people can’t even deal with what’s real. It’s the sound of a last-ditch plea for help. Yet, like all of us, it shows how the pressures of a fast-paced world can get to us. The Guardian columnist Emma Beddington has documented this incursion, illustrating how creepy it is in social settings.
The ramifications of this cultural change can be seen in the leadership where younger people have stepped up to lead. Because it’s 19-year-old Reform councillor, Warren Morgan, holding the portfolio for children and family services in Leicestershire. Today, a 22-year-old stands at the helm of adult social care. Their shocking claim, “depression isn’t real,” should be the last straw in questioning their grasp on the reality of mental health challenges.
Members of Gen Z do not get in your face on social media for one reason. Words like “slay,” “mid” and “delulu” often draw the lines in their social prisms. Together, these artistic forms exemplify a deep and rich cultural heritage. They can deflect us from the emotional burden this generation is carrying.
In her article, Beddington mentions the practice of “mewing,” recently popularized by social media influencers, as explained in Beddington’s article published in The Guardian. Contrary to our expectations, younger folks are more interested in changing their physical appearance. This trend is usually indicative of deeper insecurities.
Gen Z’s behavior
Environment played a major role in shaping Gen Z’s behavior. Construction sites, train tracks, fire works and an electrical substation ring their daily worlds. These issues play a huge role in how they engage with their broader surroundings.
A recent NPR opinion piece draws attention to the fact that this staring behavior may be a sign of boredom. It doesn’t always indicate severe emotional trauma. The quote emphasizes the importance of context, stating:
“Maybe what we’re witnessing … is some boredom, especially with who they’re interacting with.” – NPR
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