'You can experience so much without being in a defined relationship'

A stock image of a couple holding hands.

Gen Z is a 'generation struggling with vulnerability'

(Image credit: Stock Photo via Getty Images)

published 12 March 2025

'Teens are forgoing a classic right of passage'

Faith Hill at The Atlantic

A "whole lot of American adults are withdrawing from romance," but the "trend seems to be especially pronounced for Gen Z," says Faith Hill. You "can grow into a perfectly mature and healthy adult without ever having had a romantic relationship," but this "shift could be concerning: a sign" of a "generation struggling with vulnerability." A "first love, for so many, has been a milestone on the path to adulthood." What's "lost if that rite of passage disappears?"

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Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.