Generation Z Intelligence Decline: First Generation Less Smart than Parents

For the first time, Generation Z (youth aged 15–27) has been found to have lower intelligence than their parents' generation. Neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cune Horwath revealed this before a US Senate committee, attributing the decline primarily to excessive reliance on digital technology.

Dr. Horwath noted that since the late 1800s, this is the first time a generation's IQ, memory, focus, learning, math, and problem-solving skills have decreased compared to the previous generation. He emphasized that human brains are not designed to learn from short videos or brief sentences but benefit more from deep study and face-to-face interactions.

Schools in Europe Limit Digital Gadgets

Countries like Sweden have recently removed digital gadgets from schools and returned to pen-and-paper and printed books. France, the Netherlands, the UK, and Finland have also limited tablet and laptop use. UNESCO warned that excessive use of technology in education is not beneficial unless it aids learning.

Gen Z Overconfidence and Expert Advice

Dr. Horwath highlighted that Generation Z youth are overly confident about their intelligence and unaware of their weaknesses. Education experts recommend delaying smartphone use for children, providing flip phones instead, and controlling technology in schools at a national level. Experts called this a “social emergency” and suggested restricting EdTech usage, following Scandinavian examples.

Impact of High Screen Time

The research included data from 80 countries. Children spending 5 hours daily on computers at school scored lower than those who used technology less or not at all. When schools provided each student with a device, scores dropped sharply.