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I think there's something to the idea that expectations are growing faster than prosperity is and that's making people feel worse about how they're doing economically.
I think reality hurts and debt allows you to ignore reality.
They are the first digitally native generation and you only ever see the success stories on social media. Maybe that is resulting in a lot of ‘keeping up with the influencers’ spending?
They saw their parents generation broken on the wheel for next-to-no benefit compared to the preceding boomers… why not splurge what you have on fillers and holidays while you can still enjoy it. Spending it isnt going to bring lasting happiness though.
(Sorry - stream of consciousness writing in response to your comment)
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Might have something to do with the debt levels as well. Are they racking up debt to just meet their needs or are they racking up debt because they want to live their expected lifestyle.
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It would be interesting to know.
I've seen some coverage of Gen Z having very unrealistic expectations about starting salaries, but I don't know how that's actually manifesting.
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I remember my first corporate management job. Paid 50k a year plus a small bonus. I was thinking "big money". Then I bought a condo and at the end of the month after paying all my expenses I barely had $100 dollars left and I was not thinking "big money" anymore. But on the bright side a couple years later I had done well and been given more responsibility and had my salary up to 65k plus bonus and I had started my business as a side hustle and things were on the upswing.
The real world comes at you fast when you are young.
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