A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Generation Z's perceptions of a good life beyond consumerism: Insights from the United States and Finland




AuthorsGrénman, Miia; Hakala, Ulla; Mueller, Barbara; Uusitalo, Outi

PublisherWiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Publication year2024

JournalInternational Journal of Consumer Studies

Article numbere12994

Volume48

Issue1

eISSN1470-6431

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1111/ijcs.12994

Web address https://doi.org/10.1111/ijcs.12994

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/181241915


Abstract

This paper examines Generation Z consumers' perceptions of a good life beyond consumerism and how their perceptions and practices have evolved during crises and the cultural context in which they live. We present a unique theoretical and empirical cross-cultural investigation which focuses on the ecological crisis and COVID-19 pandemic, and the changes they have caused to Gen Zs' daily lives in the United States (California) and Finland. Two large qualitative data sets were collected through focus group interviews and open- and closed-ended surveys before and during COVID-19 and analyzed via the PERMA framework. Findings revealed that Gen Zs' pathways that lead to a good life include: healthy behaviors and balance; positive and meaningful relationships; happiness and positivity; meaningful things; productivity and goals; and daily routines. Findings also indicated that since COVID-19, Gen Zs are increasingly shifting toward virtuous behaviors and eudaimonic-oriented life, in which moderation, meaningfulness, and self-realization play key roles. Gen Zs are characterized as a global consumer cohort and a driver of change for a sustainable future, thus understanding how these future professionals, leaders, and mainstream consumers perceive a good life provides theoretical and practical insights into how to provide ecologically sustainable well-being for nature and future generations.


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Funding information in the publication
No funding was received for this manuscript.


Last updated on 2025-27-03 at 21:57