Expectations from generation Z youth and expectations of generation Z youth: A Phenomenological analysis

In recent years, Generation Z, born from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s, has brought forth a significantly different and unique set of expectations and values compared to previous generations. This shift poses a critical challenge for businesses, educational institutions, and policymakers. The perspectives of Generation Z on technology, work- life balance, social responsibility, and diversity highlight the need to reshape societal structures and educational paradigms. However, there is a significant gap in understand- ing the expectations of Generation Z as a society. This gap leads to compatibility issues between Generation Z and societal structures, necessitating its addressing for effective interaction with this demographic group. Pupose: The main aim of this study is to determine the expectations of families, teachers, and the government towards Generation Z youth with different socio-economic and edu- cational backgrounds in Turkey, as well as to identify the expectations of Generation Z from families, teachers, and the government. This comprehensive study presents both the expectations from Generation Z in Turkey and the expectations of Generation Z compar- atively. According to the 2022 International Migration Statistics by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUİK), it is predicted that Turkey will experience significant brain drain and workforce loss in the future due to the plans of many young people to migrate abroad. In this context, it is anticipated that this study will provide insights into Generation Z and its expectations, and lead to important implications for preventing brain drain and workforce loss. This study aims to examine what the Generation Z youth in Turkey, with varying socioeconomic and educational backgrounds, expect from their families, teachers, and the government, and how the Generation Z responds to these expectations. In this exam- ination process, our research provides a broad perspective on how the expectations of young people can be evaluated within the framework of Maslow's hierarchy of needs and understanding the alignment of these expectations with societal structures. Furthermore, the findings of this study may provide valuable information for policymakers, educational institutions, and businesses in better understanding the needs of young people and align- ing them with the broader expectations of society. Method: Observation and interview techniques were employed in this research, designed with a qualitative research design and utilizing a phenomenological approach to delve deeper into the phenomenon. The participants of the study consisted of 7 students attend- ing a Science High School with the highest success in the National High School Entrance Exam (LGS) in Ankara, 7 students attending a Vocational and Technical Anatolian High School with low success in LGS, and 10 young people who had dropped out of formal education due to various reasons. These three groups with different educational profiles were selected to shed light on the general objectives of the research. Semi-structured in- terview questions were used, and data were collected through individual interviews with all participants. Results: The findings of the research reveal that families attach great importance to the education of Generation Z and expect high achievements from them. Teachers, on the other hand, expect students to have emotional intelligence and social skills, and to de- velop collaboration skills. According to the perception of Generation Z regarding what the state expects from them, it is claimed that the state has not clearly specified its expec- tations. However, Generation Z expects to contribute to the country's digital transfor- mation by being beneficial individuals to their nation, using their skills in technology, paying taxes, and adhering to rules. Conclusion and Suggestions: A generational gap between Generation Z and family, teachers, and the government has been identified. It is observed that these differences lead to commu- nication and interaction issues. Establishing a better connection with Generation Z and providing contemporary living opportunities are necessary.