A recent Gallup survey conducted in partnership with the Walton Family Foundation and Dr. Lisa Damour, a clinical adolescent psychologist, explored how young Americans, specifically Gen Zers, cope with stress, anxiety, and other big emotions. The survey included 1,675 children between the ages of 10 and 18, along with their parents or guardians.
The results of the survey revealed that young Gen Zers are using healthy coping mechanisms to deal with challenging feelings. More than half of the respondents reported that they listen to music, 45% play video games, 45% connect with friends, and 39% talk about their feelings. Interestingly, only 20% of teens reported turning to social media when upset.
The emotional lives of preteens and teens seemed to be mostly positive, with 94% of teens reporting feeling happiness frequently. However, 45% of teens also reported feeling stressed, 38% felt anxious, and 23% felt sad.
The survey also delved into how parents and guardians can support teens in managing their emotions. More than 60% of Gen Zers expressed the desire for their parents to listen to them when they are upset, while only 28% wanted their parents to give advice. The survey found that younger Gen Zers sought parental reassurance and physical comfort, while teenagers preferred space when upset.
Interestingly, the survey highlighted that young people who feel the need to be perfect are more likely to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, and stress. In particular, one-third of Gen Z kids feel pressure to be perfect, with higher rates among 13- to 15-year-olds and girls.
Dr. Lisa Damour expressed her surprise at the number of young Gen Zers reporting positive emotions and coping techniques. She emphasized that while teenagers experience a range of emotions, their positive emotions outweigh the negative ones. Damour also provided guidance for parents, encouraging them to focus on listening to their teens rather than immediately offering solutions.
As the new school year begins, Damour advised parents to prioritize listening and taking teens’ feelings seriously. By acknowledging their emotions and providing a supportive environment, parents can help teens effectively manage their feelings. Ultimately, the survey suggests that teenagers desire to be heard and understood by adults, emphasizing the importance of communication and support in navigating their emotional experiences.