A large part of Gen Z does not change light bulbs themselves. However, the reason apparently lies not in the incompetence of young people.
In a study published a few months ago, Gen Z (people born between 1995 and 2010) was asked about various household tasks. It was found that around a quarter do not change a light bulb on their own.
A reporter who is also part of Gen Z views such studies a bit differently. She believes there is a simple and fundamental reason why Gen Z does not take action on such tasks. And it is neither laziness nor incompetence.
“She failed to address the possible reasons”
What reason does she mention? Ellie Muir, the author of the article and also part of Gen Z, believes that such studies do not address the real reasons that lead to the results of such studies. She writes:
“Whatever you think about the accuracy of the study, it failed to address the possible reasons why Gen Z might be afraid of doing DIY tasks.”
As a primary reason, she mentions the fact that fewer and fewer young people can afford a home and are renting. This means that “residents are in a constant dilemma with landlords.” Additionally, more young people are living longer with their parents, where they also do not have to perform DIY tasks.
Doing DIY tasks oneself can ultimately lead to the forfeiture of the claim to the deposit paid when renting an apartment. This makes young people more cautious and, when in doubt, prefer to contact the landlord or property manager.
The prices for homes in their hometown London have risen drastically compared to the prices that millennials had to pay. While millennials paid around £51,800 for their mortgage in the first 5 years, today it is £104,400.
According to a study by rental company Hampton, in 2023 about 36% of renters were part of Gen Z. 10 years earlier, the figure was only 1% – which is not surprising considering that members of Gen Z would have had to be between 3 and 18 years old in 2013.
While there are constant allegations against young people of Gen Z, a change in one country has shown that Gen Z raises valid points regarding work-life balance: A country in Europe introduced the four-day workweek six years ago, and we now know: Gen Z was always right
