Did you know that the concept of a “teenager” wasn’t exactly invented until the 20th century? Sure, humans have always aged relatively the same, despite the fact that we live much longer than we used to, but the phase between childhood and adulthood never really existed.

Soon after hitting puberty, girls would be married off, raise children, and their husbands would work to support their families. After World War II, the social look on adolescents changed. They no longer worked entirely for their parents. According to the BBC, teens were seen by companies as possible influencers. “They were capable of setting trends and spreading fashions, and therefore could be marketed to for great profit,” according to senior staff journalist Richard Fisher.

Teens are growing up far more slowly than those growing up in the 20th century. Compared to their parents and older generations who grew up in the 1970s, '80s, and '90s, current teenagers are less likely to abuse harmful substances and engage in sexual activities. While this isn’t much of a serious problem, some kids are slightly less independent when moving out or going off to college. There is also a large lack of basic skills. “They often have trouble with basics like planning, time management and problem-solving,” says NYU professor Yamalis Diaz. Even if new adults believe they are ready to leave home, many still have trouble being on their own.

However, going against these studies, Generation Z is much different compared to older generations. Gen Z is the most racially diverse and possibly the most well-educated generation. Modern teens and young adults are typically more financially stable, especially after growing up in the second largest economic failure since the Great Depression. Being raised in the most disruptive decade, Gen Z understands that change is possible. They watched a global pandemic wash over, fought in political and equality rallies, and stood up for what they believed in. This generation takes up a quarter of the U.S. population and another large fraction globally.

Gen Z is more interested in a social change compared to their parents. They tend to be more progressive and they are less likely to see the United States as superior compared to older generations.