Though sex-mad teens have been a staple stereotype since teenagers were invented, they’re getting markedly less amorous, according to surveys. In fact, the number of high schoolers who’d had sex dropped by a third between 1991 and 2019, with just 38% of teens now saying they’ve “done it.” That decline could suggest a lack of intimate relationships among young people. But it could also just be a rejection of shallow hookup culture and a focus on personal safety and protection.

It was a rite of passage for previous generations of teenagers. But Gen Z is the least likely generation in America’s history to work before college. Factors ranging from an unwillingness to drive and the changing nature of the economy have an impact. It’s also a sign that this generation is particularly focused on education. But it also comes down to the fact that poorly paid burger-flipping jobs teens got in decades past are now going to adults instead.

A survey of Gen Zers across the Asia-Pacific region found that nearly a quarter said social media helped their mental health during the pandemic, connecting them to family and friends and offering something to alleviate the boredom of lockdown. But a third said it actually made things worse.

Millennials may remember iPods and MySpace from their teen years, but Gen Z is the first generation to be raised in the age of smartphones and social media — and they don’t know anything different. Social media plays a major role in how Gen Z gives back because it’s so integral to their lives. The good news: That social engagement style means Gen Z may be responsible for bolstering overall civic engagement, and even replenishing a community’s social capital.

Songwriter and producer Finneas is the brains behind some of your favorite songs from Selena Gomez, Bruno Mars, Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish. Finneas joined Carlos on The Carlos Watson Show to discuss his unorthodox path to success and share his interesting ideas on why he thinks Gen Z will change democracy in the years to come.

Gen Zers want their consumer dollars to make a positive difference. According to a recent study, more than 50% of them have purchased a product or service to show support for a preferred cause. They also want to buy from brands that have a purpose. And in order to keep this generation engaged, brands must make a concentrated effort to promote philanthropy and the generation’s belief in a better world.