[Extra] Gen Z teens Now Less Rebellious, More Depressed

Teenagers today are breaking free from the rebellious stereotype of past generations—but it comes at a cost.

From all indications, they are reshaping adolescence itself. Unlike their predecessors, many Gen Z teens are steering clear of risky behaviours like smoking, drinking, and drug use.

They’re also less likely to clash with the law or engage in violence. On the surface, this looks like good news—a sign that young people are making healthier, more responsible decisions.

Yet, parents and caregivers are noticing a far more troubling trend. Beneath the image of a well-behaved generation lies a silent epidemic of emotional pain. Increasing numbers of teens are wrestling with depression, anxiety, and self-harm. Many also struggle with body image, sleep issues, and loneliness, even while appearing to do all the “right” things.

“I used to worry about my son getting into the wrong crowd,” says Mrs. Eniola, a mother of two. “Now, I worry more when he’s in his room for hours, barely talking, always online. He’s not partying or misbehaving, but he’s not okay either.”

It’s a shift leaving many parents concerned. Teachers, too, are reporting rising burnout and emotional fragility among students. Teens are under constant pressure to excel, fit in, and stay visible in a hyper-connected world. Social media is both their stage and their mirror, reflecting impossible standards they feel compelled to meet.

Disturbingly, many teens today are sleeping less, eating poorly, and withdrawing socially while presenting an outward calm. Mr. Okoye Akume, a counsellor at Nyanya Secondary School, observed: “We used to expect teenagers to rebel. Now, many of them are simply overwhelmed. They’re not fighting rules; they’re fighting their own thoughts.”

While fewer teens are acting out publicly, many are quietly battling struggles that are harder to notice and harder to treat.

Parents are realising that a quiet child isn’t always a happy child. High grades, neat appearances, and good behaviour can easily hide emotional suffering.

Caregivers are calling for more open conversations, less pressure, and stronger emotional education.

They believe families and schools must focus not only on discipline and academics but also on nurturing resilience and emotional intelligence.

The reality is, Gen Z isn’t acting out—they’re burning out.

Unless greater attention is paid to what’s happening beneath the surface, society risks losing a generation that appears fine on the outside but is silently crumbling within.