The Psychology of Gen Z (Raised Without Applause)

The Psychology of Gen Z (Raised Without Applause) In this video we breakdown why Gen Z, the first generation raised with smartphones, fast internet, and social media, so often feels no peace of mind, and argue that two seemingly opposite problems are really one story. Their habit is driven by variable rewards (like a slot machine), the dopamine pull of wanting rather than enjoying, the loss of boredom through instant internet, and endless feeds with no stopping point. Social media adds social comparison. The video then shows how these two are often the same person on different days, caught in a cycle of pressure, escape, guilt, and more pressure, where the phone works like a painkiller that numbs anxiety without healing it. It also notes that the science is messy: the average link between screen time and wellbeing is tiny, and feelings shape phone use as much as the reverse. Researched referenced: Ferster, C. B., & Skinner, B. F. (1957). Schedules of reinforcement. Appleton-Century-Crofts. Berridge, K. C., & Robinson, T. E. (2016). Liking, wanting, and the incentive-sensitization theory of addiction. American Psychologist. Festinger, L. (1954). A theory of social comparison processes. Human Relations. Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin. Orben, A., & Przybylski, A. K. (2019). The association between adolescent well-being and digital technology use. Nature Human Behaviour. Orben, A., Przybylski, A. K., Blakemore, S.-J., & Kievit, R. A. (2022). Windows of developmental sensitivity to social media. Nature Communications. Lieberman, M. D., Eisenberger, N. I., Crockett, M. J., Tom, S. M., Pfeifer, J. H., & Way, B. M. (2007). Putting feelings into words: Affect labeling disrupts amygdala activity in response to affective stimuli. Psychological Science. Pew Research Center (2025). Teens, Social Media and Technology. Deloitte (2025). Gen Z and Millennial Survey. Disclaimer: This video is for informational and educational purpose only and is meant to inform and spark reflection, not to replace guidance from a qualified expert. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, or manage any health condition. If something in this video resonates with your own struggles, consider talking with a certified counselor, psychologist, or doctor who can give you support tailored to your situation. #genz #genzpsychology #psychology #mindset #minddevelopment #genzhumor #highiq #personalgrowth #personaldevelopment