Why this generation has become so sensitive?

You must have noticed something different looking at the kids and teenagers nowadays. Teenagers these days are confused, depressed, and anxious. I don’t think there’s any need to go through the whole scenario again. Teenagers and young adults are not happy. While parents might think that their kids are insensitive to their manners, culture and values, young adults are very sensitive regarding everything.

This generation is showing a major personality trait which might be concerning: over-sensitivity about every word they are told.

Every generation shows different characteristics and personality traits. Many huge changes happen when a whole generation is diverged. Every generation is unique, shaped by its time's societal, technological, and cultural forces. As we move into the 21st century, it’s evident that today’s generation, often referred to as Generation Z and Millennials, differs significantly from their predecessors. This divergence is not merely a matter of age but is deeply rooted in the rapid changes and innovations that have reshaped our world.

In recent years, it has become increasingly evident that this generation is characterized by a heightened sensitivity.

Whether it’s a reaction to social media posts, comments on sensitive topics, or the demands for trigger warnings, there’s no denying that today’s young adults are more emotionally attuned than ever before. Surveys and research studies on the attitudes and beliefs of younger generations often reveal their heightened sensitivity to issues related to mental health, social justice, gender equality, and environmental sustainability.

You must have experienced something like this. You are talking about politics and how the current president is working for the country and suddenly the teen at your home shouts out loud “This president is not worthy, is too insensitive doesn’t care about our mental health, doesn’t understand about feminism, doesn’t let us live freely. I hate the president and your opinion.”

Well, this doesn’t stop here but you get the point.

After listening to these words, you feel that your kid has become so sensitive and is not even open to different ideas and just cares about their own opinion. Or you might feel the generation gap is affecting the conversation. Yes, it is true, the generational gap and many things have led your kids to become so sensitive towards societal issues.

But why though? Let’s dive right in.

The Information Age.

One of the most profound differences between today’s generation and the previous ones is the relationship with technology. Millennials and Generation Z are digital natives, growing up with computers, smartphones, and the internet as integral parts of their lives. This unprecedented exposure to technology has not only transformed the way they communicate but also how they learn, work, and socialize.

With the internet at their fingertips, young people are exposed to a barrage of information and news 24/7. They witness global conflicts, natural disasters, and societal issues in real time, and this constant exposure to distressing events can lead to emotional exhaustion and desensitization.

The younger generation has grown up in a world that encourages open dialogue and advocacy for social justice.

Movements like #MeToo, Black Lives Matter, and climate change activism have empowered individuals to speak out against injustice. This newfound awareness and commitment to creating a more equitable world can make young people more sensitive to issues like discrimination, inequality, and environmental degradation. Sensitivity, in this context, is a sign of empathy and a desire for positive change.

The stigma surrounding mental health has gradually eroded over the years. Young adults are now more aware of and open about their mental health struggles. This increased dialogue about mental health has led to a greater understanding of emotions and feelings, fostering a culture of sensitivity towards one another’s mental well-being.

Young adults use sensitivity as a coping mechanism for all this overload of information and hyper-awareness.

Social Media

Social media platforms play a significant role in amplifying sensitivity. While they provide a space for connectivity and self-expression, they also expose users to cyberbullying, trolling, and a constant comparison culture. The fear of negative comments or online harassment can make individuals hypersensitive to criticism, as they navigate the complexities of virtual interactions. In response, teenagers may find themselves trolling others and fighting with people who are talking against their ideas.

The “like” and “comment” features on social media platforms create a system where individuals seek validation and approval through online interactions. The number of likes, comments, or followers can become a measure of self-worth, making individuals more sensitive to the reception of their online posts and images.

The internet and social media have facilitated online shaming and cancel culture, where individuals are publicly criticized and ostracized for their actions or statements. This can create an atmosphere of fear and sensitivity to the potential social consequences of one’s online behaviour.

Social media algorithms often curate content based on users’ preferences, leading to the formation of filter bubbles and echo chambers, where individuals surround themselves with like-minded people and ideas, reinforcing their beliefs and sensitivities. Exposure to a variety of perspectives and constructive criticism is limited in these echo chambers, further exacerbating sensitivity to opposing views.

Parenting Styles

The way this generation has been raised also plays a pivotal role in their sensitivity. Many parents have adopted child-rearing approaches that emphasize emotional intelligence, encouraging their children to express their feelings and emotions freely. While this promotes emotional growth, it can also result in increased sensitivity to criticism and negative feedback.

# Authoritative parents are typically warm, nurturing, and responsive to their children’s needs. They set clear boundaries while also allowing their teenagers some autonomy. This parenting style can lead to emotionally secure teenagers who are sensitive to the feelings and needs of others. Teens raised by authoritative parents often feel comfortable expressing their emotions, which can make them more in touch with their feelings and the emotions of those around them. This sensitivity can enhance their social skills and empathy.

# Authoritarian parents tend to be strict, demanding, and less responsive to their teenagers’ emotional needs. They prioritize obedience and discipline, which can lead to teenagers feeling emotionally suppressed and anxious. Teens raised in authoritarian households might become hypersensitive to criticism and judgment as they are accustomed to scrutiny and harsh consequences for disobedience. This heightened sensitivity can result in increased stress and difficulty in managing emotions.

# Permissive parents are lenient and indulgent, often avoiding confrontation and rules. While they might be supportive and loving, they may struggle to set appropriate boundaries, which can lead to teenagers feeling entitled and unprepared for the challenges of the real world. Teens raised in permissive environments may exhibit sensitivity in the form of entitlement or a lack of emotional regulation. They may struggle with frustration and disappointment when they encounter limits or face adversity.

# Neglectful parents are often emotionally distant and uninvolved in their teenagers’ lives. This can result in teenagers feeling neglected, unsupported, and emotionally detached. Teens raised in neglectful environments may develop heightened sensitivity as a defensive mechanism to cope with the lack of emotional support. They may be more prone to anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming healthy relationships.

# Balanced or democratic parenting involves open communication, mutual respect, and collaboration between parents and teenagers. This approach allows teenagers to express themselves and make decisions with guidance, fostering emotional intelligence. Teens raised in balanced environments tend to develop healthy emotional regulation and sensitivity to others’ needs. They are more likely to be empathetic and confident in their relationships.

Sensitivity in today’s generation, like any trait, has both positive and negative aspects. While sensitivity can be a valuable quality that promotes empathy, compassion, and social awareness, it can become problematic when it reaches extreme levels or when it interferes with an individual’s ability to navigate the challenges of life effectively.

Here are some reasons why sensitivity in today’s generation can sometimes be viewed as a problem:

1. Overreacting to Minor Issues: Excessive sensitivity can lead individuals to overreact to minor inconveniences, criticisms, or setbacks. This can result in unnecessary stress, conflict, and difficulty in coping with everyday challenges.
2. Difficulty Handling Criticism: Highly sensitive individuals may struggle to handle criticism or constructive feedback, often taking it personally and feeling deeply hurt. This can hinder personal and professional growth.

3. Conflict Avoidance: Some sensitive individuals avoid conflicts at all costs, even when addressing issues is necessary for personal or professional development. Avoidance can lead to unresolved problems and unmet needs.

4. Emotional Exhaustion: Constant exposure to distressing news, social media negativity, or personal problems can lead to emotional exhaustion in sensitive individuals. This can negatively impact their mental and emotional well-being.

5. Difficulty in Decision-Making: Overthinking and excessive sensitivity can make decision-making more challenging. Fear of making mistakes or causing harm can lead to indecision or avoidance of making choices.

The heightened sensitivity of this generation is a multifaceted phenomenon with both positive and negative implications. While it can lead to a more empathetic and socially aware society, it also presents challenges related to emotional resilience and open dialogue. To harness the benefits of this increased sensitivity, it is essential to foster a culture that encourages constructive conversations, critical thinking, and emotional resilience while acknowledging and addressing the underlying causes that have contributed to this sensitivity epidemic. Ultimately, understanding and empathy should be at the core of any discussions surrounding this generation’s sensitivity.

It’s important to note that sensitivity, when balanced and managed appropriately, can be a valuable trait. It can lead to greater empathy, creativity, and a deep connection with others. However, when sensitivity becomes extreme or uncontrolled, it can indeed present challenges.

The key is to find a balance and develop emotional resilience. This can involve self-awareness, self-regulation, seeking support or therapy when necessary, and recognizing that sensitivity, when managed well, can be an asset rather than a liability. Encouraging open communication and providing a supportive environment can also help individuals harness the positive aspects of their sensitivity while addressing any potential challenges.

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