Post-Soviet generation. Why are we struggling to understand today’s youth?

Simply put, this is a different generation, very different.

Young people in the post-soviet countires grew up in completely different socio-cultural and economic circumstances than during USSR times.

They did not go through the conditions of Soviet realities, which were characterized by limited material wealth. They grew up in an abundant world and did not need to think about how to help their families earn a living and acquire the most basic goods. Such issues did not bother them.

In contrast, Gen Z (born after 1997) have more time to think about things instead of constantly doing something to maintain a living. And, in my opinion, this is the key to understanding the youth in the former communist countries.

In general, they devote more time to studying their inner world. On the one hand, they are interested in analyzing the motives of their actions, as well as thinking about their aspirations and how to realize themselves in life. They are prone to self-reflection, which allows them to become more aware of what they are doing and why.

On the other hand, over-focusing on the internal state can lead to the development of internal negative processes, which ultimately translate into depressive states and isolation.

In such a situation, for the close people, it is important to notice this on time and support a teenager, or, if the situation is out of control, seek help from a psychologist.

The older generation should understand that children are different and some are more sensitive and prone to mental injury than others. Therefore, we need to learn to accept the younger generation as they are.

I would recommend starting to read more books and articles related to psychology that describe the meaning of emotions and how to work with them. For example, in the book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, which became a worldwide bestseller, Stephen Covey made it clear how crucial the emotional component is for the balanced and harmonious growth of a person.

In today’s unstable world, it is more important for us than ever to be able to understand our children and grandchildren. It will be much easier for them to overcome the difficulties of life, feeling the support and acceptance of the people closest to them.

I myself am a representative of the Gen Z, who had traumas throughout my early years, so I hope that the attitude of the older generation will be positively evolving over time.

Sincerely yours,

Aliaksandr