Gen Z, often labelled the “sober curious” generation, are consuming more alcohol than the generation before them, a new study has claimed.
Despite suggestions that Gen Z adults are drinking less than previous generations, the research found that 68 per cent of young adults reported binge drinking in the last year.
The findings show that binge drinking rates are higher among Gen Z than they were among millennials at a similar age.
Lead author Dr Aase Villadsen said: “Recent reports have suggested that young people are increasingly turning their backs on drinking alcohol compared to earlier-born generations. However, our new study appears to show that this might not be the case for some members of Gen Z as they reach their early 20s.
“Although late adolescence and early adulthood is a time when young people tend to experiment, increased binge drinking and drug use does give cause for concern, especially if these behaviours become more ingrained during their 20s.”
The study, from University College London, also found that half of 23-year-olds have used cannabis and a third have tried harder drugs, such as cocaine, ketamine and ecstasy.
It comes from data of nearly 10,000 young adults born in the UK in 2000, 2001, and 2002. Participants were asked at 17 years old, and again at 23, how often they were using drugs or alcohol.
Researchers found that the number of people binge drinking or trying hard drugs had tripled by the time the group was 23 years old.
Some 29 per cent reported they binged on alcohol once a month or more at age 23, compared to 10 per cent at age 17.
It compares to the 25 per cent of millennials who were binge drinking once a month at a similar age.
Young adults who attended university reported higher rates of frequent binge drinking, and men were more likely to binge drink or take drugs.
The proportion of people trying cannabis increased to 49 per cent, up from 31 per cent when the group was 17 years old.
Dr Villadsen said: “Substance use and potentially addictive behaviours like gambling can be harmful and impact individuals’ health, relationships, and educational and employment prospects.
“Their effects can also put a strain on public services, especially healthcare, social care, and the criminal justice system.
“Our findings highlight the need for sustained policy attention to substance use and addictive behaviours in young adults.”
