A survey from the Harvard Graduate School of Education found that more than a third of Americans ages 18 to 25 often feel lonely. The pandemic caused many young adults to spend less time in shared spaces like classrooms and offices, where they typically form relationships offline.
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has referred to this as a “loneliness epidemic.”
According to Business Insider, members of Generation Z are spending a lot of money on memberships and events to meet people and maintain their connections.
Lynette Ban, a young adult who moved from New York to Austin during the pandemic to save money while working remotely, is one of them.
However, you have spent a significant amount of money trying to make friends.
Loneliness
The 26-year-old allocates a minimum of $500 (about Rs 42,000) for her social club membership and gym program.
In addition, he spends several hundred dollars dining with his friends and acquaintances.
“After the pandemic, I started prioritizing more of these clubs and joining these organizations where I can meet new people and build a network that way.” Ban told Business Insider.
William Cabell, who is 24, spends $70 (roughly Rs. 5,800) a month on a climbing gym membership and an additional $161 (roughly Rs. 13,400) at a jujitsu gym, all to meet new people.
unpack
“To make friends, you need consistency, and I’ve found that investing is a good way to get that from both myself and others.” the software engineer told Business Insider. “If you pay for something, you will be present.”
Cabell mentioned that he started spending more on social activities because he had difficulty making friends at work.
Representative image
“These types of activities make it easier to make friends than free activities because they tend to be more structured. Basically, you’re stuck with everyone else and forced into new social situations.” he told the publication.
However, Cabell and Ban are not the only people contributing to the increase in memberships in these social clubs and gyms.
“An increased focus on health and wellness and a strong desire for IRL connection are two important factors driving the demand and growth of our membership with this generation.” Kelly Lohr, chief marketing officer at Orangetheory, told Business Insider.
Rebecca Schweiger, founder of The Art Studio NY, mentioned in an interview that Gen Zers join classes regularly to satisfy their desire for community and connection.
He noted that younger adults attend alone, seeking personal fulfillment and companionship.
“It’s pretty typical for students, especially adults, to make friends, socialize together, first meet in the classroom and then meet outside of class,” Schweiger added.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn