Gen Z Authentic

Gen Z and the Struggle for Authenticity: Why Many Feel Held Back

Authenticity has become a defining characteristic of Generation Z, a group known for its boldness, self-expression, and embrace of individuality. From TikTok trends that celebrate quirks to open conversations about mental health and social justice, Gen Z has cultivated a reputation for breaking down barriers and prioritizing what they perceive as their truest selves. But as inspiring as this outward persona is, a deeper look reveals a more complex narrative where many in Gen Z feel held back from fully expressing who they are. The biblical definition of authentic/authenticity is being who God made you be, which is in alignment with Scripture.

According to recent findings from Barna Group's "Gen Z: The State of the Next Generation 2024" study, a significant portion of Gen Z struggles with barriers to authenticity, shedding light on the nuanced challenges this generation faces.

The Pressure to Be Authentic

For many Gen Zers, the journey to authenticity is deeply intertwined with their coming-of-age experience. Early adulthood (ages 18–24) brings new challenges—like entering the workforce, navigating relationships, and achieving financial independence—that can create feelings of insecurity and self-doubt. Barna's research reveals that young adults in this age group are nearly twice as likely as Gen Z teens (ages 13–17) to report feeling held back from being their authentic selves (62% vs. 34%).

This sharp divide between teens and young adults highlights a critical truth: while authenticity may be celebrated in theory, the realities of adulting often place invisible barriers on how freely young people can express themselves. Early adulthood can feel like a minefield for authenticity, whether it's the pressure to conform in a professional setting, fear of judgment from peers, or societal expectations.

Gender and the Authenticity Gap

Barna's study also reveals a striking gender gap in how authenticity is experienced. Female Gen Zers are significantly more likely than their male counterparts to say they've felt held back from authentically expressing themselves (53% vs. 47%). This disparity becomes even more pronounced among young adult women, with 67% reporting they've felt this way—the highest percentage among any demographic group in the study.

Why is this the case? Societal pressures play a significant role. Women are often expected to meet conflicting demands: be assertive but not too bold, attractive but not too self-focused, and successful but not overly ambitious. For Gen Z women, navigating these contradictions while trying to stay true to themselves can feel overwhelming.

The Cost of Feeling "Held Back"

Feeling unable to express one's authentic self can affect the mental health and well-being of those who feel they are being held back. It fosters a sense of isolation, as though the world only sees a curated version of who you are. For a generation that places such high value on acceptance and individuality, this tension can create significant internal conflict.

Moreover, these feelings can stifle creativity and limit potential. When young people feel they need to hide parts of themselves to fit in, they may hesitate to share bold ideas, pursue their passions, or take risks that align with their values.

How to Break Free

While the challenges are real, there are ways to help Gen Zers feel more empowered to express their authentic selves:

1. Create Safe Spaces: The world philosophy is to give everyone a place free of judgment. The Biblical answer is a place of Truth. Truth makes someone free. John 8:31–32 (KJV 1900) "31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

2. Encourage Open Dialogue: Worldly thinking means you can come to the Truth by sharing ideas with everyone. The answer is having an open dialogue with God, who knows all the Truth. "15 But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, Longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and Truth." Ps 86:15.

3. Challenge Stereotypes: Worldly thinking says everyone will feel better if you break down the roles and stereotypes. The Truth's answer is that we are made in God's image and within His given roles in our lives. Genesis 1:27–28: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. 28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth..."

4. Normalize Growth: World thinking says to allow this generation to make changes in their life for the sake of making changes. Authenticity doesn't mean staying the same—it's about evolving while staying true to your core values. Helping Gen Z embrace change as part of their journey can alleviate some pressure. The Truth is to grow in grace. 18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."

Conclusion

For a generation that has built its identity around authenticity, it's ironic—and heartbreaking—that so many Gen Zers feel unable to express themselves fully as God intended. By acknowledging their societal, cultural, and personal barriers, we can better support this generation's journey to self-acceptance as God sees them.

Barna's insights from "Gen Z: The State of the Next Generation 2024" provide a valuable lens for understanding these challenges. Authenticity isn't just a buzzword for Gen Z—it's a cornerstone of their identity. We must demonstrate a biblical worldview so they can live it fully. I highly recommend anyone working with Gen Z to get Barna's research. Barna.com