On the Radar: Gen Z Friendships, Frozen Yogurt ‘Wellness’ and Cool Chess

Gen Z Is Redefining Online Friendships

What? Are friendships made and maintained online “real” friendships? Your answer might depend on the generation you grew up in. Studies have shown that digital platforms (including social media) are an integral part of communication for Gen Z—and may even approximate similar levels of connection as in-person relationships.

So What? Gen Z is regarded as the first “digitally native” generation because they grew up with the internet, social media and smartphones. So, it probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that the digital space has been an important avenue for Gen Zers to make connections and form friendships.

Now What? The internet has provided a vast number of opportunities for people to connect. And it’s certainly important for adolescents to maintain in-person relationships, not just digital ones. But perhaps the more important question to answer will be, “Is this friend a positive or negative influence in my child’s life?” 

Frozen Yogurt as Wellness Food?

What? Did you hear? Frozen yogurt is actually good for you! Well, that’s how frozen yogurt shops are selling the sweet treat to health-conscious younger generations like Gen Z. Social media creators have been pushing this new froyo image as well.

So What? A marketer’s job is to find the best way to sell their product to a given audience. For Gen Z, that means promoting froyo as a “wellness” product, and the shop itself as a great place for social interaction.

Now What? There’s nothing wrong with a sweet dessert from time to time—especially when paired with hanging out with friends or family. But if your teen thinks that frozen yogurt qualifies as a health food, you might want to show them the nutritional information provided by their favorite froyo spot and let them know it may not be as healthy as advertised.

Chess Is Making a Comeback

What? Chess master Levy Rozman told Axios, “Nowadays, kids come up to me who love chess, and they look like they would’ve bullied me in school.” Thanks to livestreamers, social events and media featuring chess, the classic strategy game is experiencing a renaissance—especially among young players.

So What? Believe it or not, younger adults are now more likely to play chess than their older counterparts. Interest in chess spiked during the pandemic when people were stuck at home and looking for something to do, and interest in the game has continued to rise in the years since.

Now What? If your teen shows an interest in chess, consider encouraging them to play either recreationally or as part of a school club. Beyond being a fun activity, research suggests that chess can improve a child’s cognitive and problem-solving skills.