Many of them were able to swipe the screen before learning to speak. Tech-savvy, but too dependent, according to a new study of our children.
There doesn’t seem to be a longing for more autonomy too soon. The youngest members of Generation Z and the oldest of Generation Alpha (born after 2010) continue to seek closeness to their parents as “natives”. You will almost never make decisions without talking to your parents first. This strengthens the parent-child bond. In a troubled society, mothers, fathers and their children will come closer together. And parents are the most important role models.
Kids have a say – when it comes to holidays and buying a car
“But that also means that teenagers hang on to their parents’ keels and are far too dependent,” emphasizes youth researcher Bernhard Heinzlmaier. A representative children’s survey of ten to fourteen year olds in Austria shows: the family has become a place of democracy. Young people play a key role in holiday planning. It often determines the destination. But also when it comes to larger investments, such as buying a car.
“The 400 interviews show us how the alpha generation will tick after 2025,” says the co-founder of the Institute for Youth Culture Research. According to the study, family and romantic love become the undisputed center of life. Work-life balance means first and foremost the desire for more quality time with the family. However, the Alpha generation is said to be more materialistic and pragmatic than the current youth generation.
Brands and brand loyalty are becoming increasingly important
She has no problem adapting if she gets the right reward for doing so. But that should not only be interpreted positively. “Because if they benefit materially from it, they also like not to say what they really think,” says Prof. Heinzlmaier. Brands are becoming increasingly indispensable. In a world where nothing lasts, they provide security and help build an identity. It is not uncommon for children to buy the same brand. The undisputed favourites: Nike and Adidas.
And the city as a magnet? On the contrary, it could lose its appeal in the future. There are many clues to an early exodus from the city. “The rural area is becoming the new area of hope. The Alpha generation will seize every opportunity to escape from the increasingly unsafe cities,” the youth researcher continues. A reconsideration is underway.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
