**6. Generation Z**

Generation Z or Gen Z are people born around 1995 to 2010 [1]. They are just now entering the job market, so their characteristics are not fully known yet. They are called "digital natives" because they have known technology since birth [17]. Thus, they are deeply attached to technology and expect employers and schools to embrace it. Due to witnessing turbulent times and political turmoil, Gen Z has less trust for authority and believes respect is earned – more like Traditionals [17]. They value meaning and are motivated to contribute positively to the world. Gen Z members are technological idealists and social justice warriors [17].

Their generation is the most racially and ethnically diverse in history [18, 19] They embrace diversity and expect their leaders to do the same. They perceive that the world is smaller because of technology and use technology for communication more than any other generation. However, 72% of Gen Z workers prefer face-to-face communication at work, while 11% prefer texts, and 9% prefer e-mail [20]. Another study found that Gen Z respondents were more likely than technology-obsessed Millennials to value face-to-face communication, emphasizing effectiveness over convenience [21].

#### **6.1 For educators**

A study by The Center for Generational Kinetics found that 60% of Gen Z members prefer multiple check-ins with the boss during the week, and 40% of those workers would prefer that those check-ins happen at least daily [20]. According to the study, if these check-ins and interactions do not occur regularly, a Gen Z worker/student is likely to think they have done something wrong [22]. Therefore, didactic and clinical educators should understand that this generation will request frequent and instant feedback. However, it does not have to be lengthy. A few words of affirmation or correction will do much of the time. It may be beneficial to carve out a set time at the beginning or end of the day to give a little more formal feedback on whatever they

are working on. Appeal to their beneficence and point out how they are contributing to the good of their patient or the community [3].

#### **6.2 For learners**

Try not to stereotype your teachers as "less connected" or in tune with tech, even though they may be. Generation Z's characteristics are much more like the Xer's than one may think in that you both like direct face-to-face communication and value innovative ideas. Healthcare Educators, particularly those in clinical practice, tend to be very busy. If they cannot give their students the feedback or attention that the students feel is needed immediately, they should be patient. Perhaps ask for a few minutes to discuss something at the end of the day or after the student has had a chance to look up the topic. The learner should offer to look up new research or guidelines and share them with their clinical educator so you can be a value-added resource as well. Learners should try to ask well-thought-out questions. They should also look things up while waiting but not in the room with the patient or while someone is talking to them. That can be perceived as disrespectful. The educator may think they are looking at social media instead of medical research [3]. Chances are that educators are going to be older than learners. Therefore, the learners should read the previous sections on the older generations to learn the best way to communicate with their educators.

#### **6.3 For healthcare providers**

Generation Z is the least comfortable visiting a physician [5]. Gen Z members are also 1.6 to 1.8 times more likely to report not seeking treatment for a behavioral health condition than millennials [16]. Because they are digital natives, they are more likely to go to social media for advice from other young people or follow mental health social media personalities to manage their behavioral health challenges. They are also more likely to use emergency rooms and crisis services. Gen Z is increasingly dissatisfied with the traditional healthcare model, and 45% do not have a primary care provider (PCP). They are turning to holistic and preventative care, seeking a convenient experience where they can have full autonomy over their health [23]. To improve communication with Generation Z, healthcare providers must embrace technology. They should offer patient portals and telehealth visits. They should also maintain a social media presence and try to post articles that may benefit various generations. Given the looming mental health crisis among Gen Z, [24], it is imperative that healthcare professionals find ways to improve Gen Z's comfort with and likelihood of accessing general and mental health services.
