A new survey has revealed that younger workers are struggling with feelings of loneliness and a lack of appreciation at work.
Generational Divide in the Workplace
The 2024 Work in America survey, conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the American Psychological Association, found that three in ten US workers reported that their older colleagues do not see the value in their ideas. This number was significantly higher for workers aged 18-25, with 45% feeling this way, compared to just 16% of those aged 65 and over.
The survey also found that younger workers, particularly those aged 18-25 and 26-43, were more likely to feel more comfortable working with people their own age rather than with other age groups.
The Changing Workplace Demographics
“With more workers retiring later in life, the demographics of the workplace are changing and younger workers seem to be having the hardest time adjusting,” said Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association.
The findings suggest that younger workers may be struggling to connect with their colleagues on a personal level, with nearly half of 18-25 year-olds saying they feel lonely at work, significantly more than older age groups.
Increased Stress for Younger Employees
Younger workers also reported feeling more tense and stressed during the workday, with 48% of 18-25 year-olds and 51% of 26-43 year-olds saying they typically feel this way, compared to just 30% of 58-64-year-olds and 17% of those aged 65 and over.
The survey also revealed that 1/3 of US workers feel they do not have enough control over when, where, and how they work, with only 38% preferring to work in-person full-time, compared to 34% who prefer a hybrid model and 28% who prefer to work remotely.
Positive Trends: Four-Day Work Week
Despite these challenges, the survey did find some positive trends, including a rise in the number of employers offering four-day work weeks, which increased from 14% in 2022 to 22% in 2024. 2/3 of workers also believe the 4-day work week will become standard in their lifetime.
The survey also highlighted the importance of psychological safety in the workplace, with workers who feel they can express themselves and raise issues without fear of negative consequences more likely to report positive experiences at work.
“Our survey findings underscore the need for employers to create psychologically safe work environments for their employees,” said Evans. “We know from research that psychological safety not only enhances individual employee well-being but strengthens the organisation by fostering a culture of creativity, innovation and effective teamwork, which ultimately helps to improve the bottom line.”
