Gen Z Prefers Texts Over Phone Calls Due to Anxiety, Experts Say

For many individuals in Generation Z, the sound of an unexpected phone call can elicit a strong sense of alarm. Experts suggest that this demographic, roughly encompassing those born between 1997 and 2012, often experiences anxiety when faced with unsolicited phone conversations, viewing them as demands for immediate attention.

Sophie Riegel, an author specializing in intergenerational relationships, explained that for those aged 14 to 29, phone calls can feel stressful, awkward, and emotionally taxing. She noted that this preference for text-based communication is not unique to her, as she also avoids calls, describing the act as a "live performance" and an inefficient use of time.

"A call to say hi or ask a simple question causes unnecessary anxiety, which is why we prefer a text," Riegel wrote on Psychology Today. She advises that older generations should inform younger individuals before calling, a sentiment echoed by studies.

A 2024 study indicated that a quarter of adults aged 18 to 34 reported never answering phone calls, with 70 percent preferring texts. Furthermore, the study revealed that more than half of young adults associate unexpected calls with negative news.

Riegel elaborated that texts allow individuals to respond when they are ready and in a more controlled environment. "A phone call requires my attention right here, right now," she stated. "When the phone rings in the middle of a focused work block, answering means dropping everything and rebuilding my concentration later." She also highlighted the pressure to be "on" during a call, lacking the ability to pause and formulate responses, unlike the safety net provided by texting.

Calls can also involve small talk and drawn-out goodbyes, which can be draining. Riegel mentioned that while she enjoys catching up, she prefers to do so when she can dedicate her full attention. For quick inquiries, texts are seen as more efficient, providing an immediate answer and a scannable record.

To bridge this communication gap, Riegel suggests a compromise. She recommends that Gen Z answer calls when they are available and that older generations be understanding if an immediate answer isn't possible. The most effective approach, according to Riegel, is to initiate contact via text. A simple "Free to call tonight?" can alleviate the anxiety of an unexpected call and allow for a mutually convenient time. For brief questions, texts suffice, while calls are better suited for more involved conversations or emotional exchanges. Riegel advises reserving surprise calls for urgent situations, ensuring that when the phone rings unexpectedly, the recipient understands its importance.