#Socialites, check out this surprising revelation right here! Gen Z, aged 18 to 24, experience an overwhelming sense of anxiety when faced with the daunting task of choosing their meal at a restaurant.
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According to the study, a staggering 86% of Gen Z respondents confessed to suffering from this peculiar anxiety, compared to a mere 67% of the general population. As the New York Post reported, the simple act of perusing a menu seems to have become a source of stress and unease for young adults.
Dean Challenger, the CEO of Prezzo, a British restaurant chain that conducted the study, said, “[While] most people look forward to dining out during the holiday season, we know – as our research shows – it can be stressful for some.”
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Sometimes, ordering food can be too overwhelming to the point where they have to ask other people at their table to order their meal. The survey, conducted among 2,000 adults, revealed that a significant 41% of Gen Z and millennials reported experiencing menu anxiety, while only 15% of Gen X and baby boomers shared the same sentiment. This stark contrast highlights a generational gap regarding the stress of ordering food.
So, what exactly is menu anxiety? It is the feeling of unease and stress that arises when faced with the task of choosing from a restaurant menu. The abundance of options can be overwhelming for some individuals, leading to difficulty deciding. This anxiety can be exacerbated by factors such as time pressure, social expectations, and fear of making the wrong choice.
Gabriel Rubin, a Professor of Justice Studies at Montclair State University, recently released a study that delves into the anxieties faced by Gen Z. The research suggests that this generation is more fearful of the world than previous generations. This fear and anxiety can manifest in various aspects of their lives, including dining experiences.
Rubin said several factors have impacted the anxiety of Gen Z’ers, such as the pandemic and missing out on in-person social skills. Often, their spaces have played a role, as some may have issues adjusting to non-digital social spaces.
