Generation Zero Confidence

New statistics reveal Gen Z are down in the dumps while Gen X are booming

Article: Christopher George

They say self-confidence is the key to success, yet a new survey reveals Gen Z spends a staggering 36 minutes per day feeling self-conscious about their appearance, which equates to 8.4 days per year, and is 44% higher than the national average (25 minutes).

​The survey, commissioned by SmileDirectClub cites the rise of social media over the last decade as one of the key factors, with one in four Brits admitting that viewing social media platforms negatively impacts their self-esteem. Of those affected, adults age18 to 24 make up 70%. 

The survey shows baby boomers (55+) feel the most confident above any generation, with 60% of boomers rating their self-esteem as six or higher on a scale of one to ten. 63% of respondents under the age of 55 are not so self-assured, rating their confidence as six or lower on the same scale.

Looking at specific features Brits feel most self-conscious about, nearly half of people surveyed [42%] list their teeth as their biggest bugbear, followed by hair [24%]; and smile [20%].  Over half [51%] admit they tackle their insecurity by smiling with their mouth closed.

When asked why teeth matter so much, one in five respondents cite them as having the power to boost confidence when socialising with friends and on a first date.

Kay Oswald, President of International at SmileDirectClub, said: "It’s disheartening to learn how many people are struggling with their confidence and self-image on a day-to-day basis. Overcoming negative perceptions of ourselves is a vital step to transforming our lives and positively impacting our place in the world.

Psychologist Georgina Barnett, M.D. says: “Life is about experiences, relationships, building a career you love, and growing as a person.  Become aware of when you are feeling validated through ‘likes’ or complements or when you are obsessing about your appearance.  This is the first step to change, as only then can you begin to critique your own thinking. Don’t let your identity become all about your appearance.”

SmileDirectClub, the industry pioneer and first direct-to-consumer medtech platform for transforming smiles,