Out of Scope Issue #137: The Kids Are Not Alright
Plus: Hollywood’s Latest and the “Deinfluencing” Facade
Editor’s Note: FYI, dear readers, that Out of Scope will pause operations for Thanksgiving week and resume the following (11/27-12/1). Thanks for reading!
Happy Friday! This week, we examine the vicissitudes of Gen Z, navigating the intricate dynamics that shape their journey from the classroom to the workplace and beyond. But first...
📡ON OUR RADAR
Tax break discussions reignited in Hollywood following Warner Bros.’ initial decision to shelve 'Coyote vs. Acme' for a tax write-off, After provoking backlash and intense criticism from cinephiles and a congressman, Warner Bros. reversed course, allowing director Dave Green to pursue other distribution options. This dispute is just one example of studios’ image issues—which extend beyond this year's strikes—against the backdrop of consumers and the creative community uniting to protect creative liberties from perceived corporate greed.
Former first daughter Chelsea Clinton announced support for a telehealth platform's expansion into primary child care. The platform’s 'Everyday Care' model aims to cut wait times with a 24/7 text service for quick connections between parents and healthcare experts, addressing routine health questions. Recognizing the need for swift and efficient communication, especially in the busy lives of busy parents and overwhelmed physicians, the startup offers its services for $20 a month — a feature likely to garner bipartisan support among America’s parents.
Initially, 'deinfluencing' sought to challenge influencer culture. However, it quickly evolved from noble pursuit into a marketing ploy. Meanwhile, TikTok introduced a new feature that streamlines online purchases, further fueling the influencer economy, despite occasional criticism. The internet remains saturated with random ads popping up in front of scrolling and disillusioned users, yet the digital landscape remains focused on monetization. The result: a clear scarcity of genuine online interaction with influencers and corporate ads continuing to win the digital day.
💡ON OUR MINDS: The Kids Are Not Alright
Image: The Who
Not you, not understanding me. Despite the perennial challenges every generation encounters, Gen Z's grappling with coming of age during a global pandemic. And it turns out that being the first generation of digital natives has prompted many to say the kids are not alright.
Another likely factor contributing to the challenges faced by Gen Z? Helicopter parenting persists even after the age of 18. This week, The Cut conducted an in-depth exploration of parents who continue to closely monitor their children well into their college years through college Facebook groups for parents.
In the UK, data revealed that employees in their early 20s are absent for approximately eight workdays a year, nearly on par with their counterparts in their early 50s. This can be partially attributed to mental health challenges confronting a generation grappling with a weakened economy, stagnant wages, and soaring rents. Another factor is lower productivity levels, which can lead to burnout.
So what is Gen Z to do? One path is to initiate proactive and empathic communication with people on channels commonly used in today’s work and life environments to interact. In short, don't be ‘mid.’ To the bosses and managers of Gen Z, consider using an app that allows people to track their absences, showing employees how many times they've missed work due to reasons such as migraines or stress, helping them understand recurring issues. Follow up with video explainers to provide insights on addressing these challenges. Constant, culturally relevant communication is key.
🥊QUICK HITS:
In case you missed these reads.
'The Simpsons' Co-Creator confirmed that Homer's enduring tradition of strangling his eldest son, Bart, will continue.
After years of subjecting Android users to social stigma, Apple shattered the 'green bubble' this week by revealing its plan to embrace RCS support in 2024
The Atlantic captured a night inside Las Vegas' newest and most dazzling attraction—the Sphere.
Thanks for reading,
HL
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This week’s newsletter is brought to you by Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree, a playful reminder that, in most cases, our emotional baggage still weighs less than the Swarovski star.