The Montclair State University study also revealed young adults’ perceptions of the future and the issues behind the increase in mental disorders such as anxiety and depression.
New research, published in Society for Risk Analysis Conference 2025showed that the members of the Generation Zborn between 1997 and 2012, sees the world with pessimism, considering it “a scary place” and full of threats. According to the author of the study, Gabriel Rubinthis perception may be associated with an increase in cases of mental disorders.
“There is a misconception that Gen Z has high rates of anxiety and depression because they are too spoiled or too sensitive. Through conversations, I have discovered that not only is the stigma around mental health decreasing, but young people also face enormous daily pressures and worries that together create a picture of a very dangerous world.” explained in a press release.
Generation Z’s view of the planet
The researcher at Montclair State University carried out, between the end of 2022 and 2025, interviews with young people from the north-eastern region of UNITED STATES. In this way, it was found that the vast majority consider the planet to be a place where risk exists everywhere. However, as Rubin reports, in an initial analysis, volunteers were more positive. Over time, they became more and more skeptical and began to present a pessimistic view.
According to research, perception is linked to both experiences during quarantine and COVID-19(female regarding the fear of attacks, particularly mass shootings. Furthermore, the expert identified that the bombardment of information about these events on social networks increases the fear of this generation. For these reasons, Gen Z has also adopted a more black and white view of whether spaces are safe or unsafe.
Additionally, they began to no longer believe that they could change the world, showing pessimism about the future and excessive concern about difficult-to-solve problems, such as climate change. According to Rubin, this fear mainly affects women. Indeed, they feel that their rights, such as the protection of reproduction, are threatened and withdrawn.
Recommendations to preserve mental health
Due to growing fear, young people more frequently develop mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression, in addition to having suicidal thoughts. Therefore, to improve this perception and well-being, the researcher suggests carefully selecting the content consumed on social networks, avoiding excessive contact with distressing images.
Another guideline is, when necessary, to present to members of this generation the context of the tragedies. In this way, it is possible to determine where the risks actually lie, thereby reducing widespread fear. It is also important to invest in mental health campaigns to address the causes of this perception of risk and encourage involvement in social movements.
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