It is up to all of us to address the lack of patriotism in Gen Z
I am a member of Generation Z and I take great pride in being an American, but sometimes it feels like I am alone in this sentiment.
Multiple polls have shown that my generation is less patriotic compared to those that came before us.
It is not surprising, given the political turmoil we have grown up in and the lack of education on why we should feel proud of our country.
A Gallup poll from the previous year revealed that only 18% of individuals aged 18 to 34 consider themselves extremely proud to be American, compared to four in 10 adults overall.
Another survey by the Democracy Fund’s voter study group produced even more alarming results, showing that three quarters of Gen Z believe significant change is needed in the nation, with two in three viewing America as an unfair society.
A concerning number of Zoomers also view America’s Founding Fathers as villains rather than heroes.
This decline in patriotism should be a concern for all Americans, especially since this generation will be the future leaders of the country. The crisis in military recruitment could even become a national security issue.
However, can we really be surprised at the decline in patriotism given the low levels of civics literacy among young people, which are only getting worse?
Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress shows that history scores among eighth graders are at their lowest point since 1994 when the assessment began, and civics proficiency is not much better.
With only 14% of students proficient in history and 22% in civics, how can a generation that lacks knowledge of their country’s history and governance systems take pride in being American?
Moreover, my recollection of US history courses involved more criticism of the country’s flaws than celebration of its strengths.
According to generational expert Dr. Jean Twenge, Gen Z’s lack of patriotism is linked to their overall pessimism and discontent.
She stated, “They are significantly more pessimistic about everything compared to Millennials at the same age. Their rise in pessimism aligns with an increase in depression, which is not surprising.”
Twenge’s analysis is supported by the fact that a considerable number of Zoomers relate to statements indicating self-doubt and worthlessness.
Twenge believes that improving the mental health of young people could also help in increasing their contentment as Americans.
She mentioned, “I don’t see Gen Z’s low patriotism and high pessimism turning around unless and until teens and young adults’ mental health improves. I don’t think that will happen until they start spending less time on social media and more time with each other in person.”
The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silentsâand What They Mean for America’s Future.”
Learning about the world and current events through social media probably doesn’t help either.
Studies show that a third of young Americans now get their news from the Chinese-owned platform TikTok, where even controversial content like Osama Bin Laden’s Letter to America has gained popularity.
By providing smartphones to young individuals but failing to provide them with adequate civics education, our society has not succeeded in instilling a sense of patriotism in the next generation.
It is easy to criticize the younger generation, but that will not solve the underlying issues.
Instead of blaming them, we should focus on empowering them with the knowledge necessary to cultivate informed patriotism – for their sake and for the sake of our country.
