All of us who belong to the Millennial generation (1981-1996) or even older generations certainly remember the time when our parents spent hours on the phone, even a landline phone, not a cell phone, talking to friends, relatives, but also colleagues.
Some of us managed to live through this period as adults. However, this seems to have changed radically for younger generations.
Specifically, Generation Z (1997-2012), the first generation to live entirely within the era of digital technology and the internet, not only does not prefer phone calls as a means of communication, but has developed, in a large percentage, what is called "telephobia", the fear and anxiety caused by the very thought of a phone call.
In fact, according to a new British study, 56% of Gen Zers are stressed by a phone call, associating it with bad news. 23% of them avoid answering it, even if they consider it important – for example, if it comes from an employer.
68% avoid answering calls from unknown numbers, but in this case there is a logical basis: they suspect it could be a scam, as many of these calls are now made through artificial intelligence applications.
As psychologist Dr. Charlotte Armitage explains, telephobia is related to what's called social anxiety. While previous generations may have had no other way to stay in touch with the outside world, young people today choose the comfort of a written conversation.
The phenomenon is so widespread that some institutions, such as Nottingham College, have started offering training in dealing with phone anxiety. Participants learn the rules of telephone communication and develop important skills to be able to cope with situations.
Moreover, as studies confirm, communication is important for personal and professional success, even in the digital age.
Source: Marie Claire
