Does Technology Make It Harder for this Generation of Teens?

What the research — and real teens — say.

Oct 30, 2024

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By Kerry Gallagher

Pew released research – in this highly interactive article – showing the answers to the question: Is it harder to be a teen today? Or was it harder in previous generations?

  • 69% of U.S. parents of teens ages 13-17 say it is harder being a teenager today than it was 20 years ago
  • 44% of teens ages 13-17 say it is harder being a teen today
  • 65% of parents mentioned some aspect of technology as the reason it is harder.
  • 39% of teens mentioned technology. Teens mentioned “more pressures and expectations” as the biggest reason it is harder for them.

One boy quoted in the research said, “Adults expect too much from us. We need to get good grades, do extracurricular activities, have a social life, and work part-time – all at the same time.”

Share the article with the teens you care about. Ask them whether they can relate to the data or the quotes. Do they have feelings similar to the ones expressed? How can you work together to help them find a fulfilling and healthy schedule?


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