Beyond the Hustle: A Systematic Literature Review and Conceptual Synthesis of Generation Z’s Workplace Psychology, Sociology, and Mental Health
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20027922
Keywords:
Generation Z, Institutional Friction, Psychological Safety, Algorithmic Anxiety, Quiet Quitting, Employee Retention, Work-Life Balance, Remote Onboarding, Employer BrandingAbstract
Generation Z (born 1995–2010) has increased in numbers in the global workforce, and organisations need to adapt their organisation’s culture and practices. This systematic literature review and conceptual synthesis of 55 peer-reviewed empirical studies from 2020 to 2025 examines the interactions between Gen Z’s expectations for work, psychological well-being, mental health, and organisational culture.
Ultimately, the synthesis reveals that Gen Z's needs for autonomy, flexibility, meaningful work, alignment with values, and psychological safety are in contrast to the rigid, transactional organisation they have long known. I introduce the Gen Z Institutional Friction Model as a model of how high intentions for exit, quiet quitting, and deliberate detachment can be rational responses to the fragility of the economy, algorithms, mismatches of values, or lack of support. I provide theoretical contributions and practical implications for human resource management and organisational development.
