Phone Call Anxiety: Why Gen Z and Millennials Prefer Text

In Spain, a new trend has emerged among young people, particularly those from Generation Z and Millennials. Many are increasingly anxious about making phone calls, preferring to communicate through text messages. This phenomenon is not limited to Spain, with similar observations reported globally. The reasons behind this aversion to phone calls are complex and multifaceted. According to Dr. Esperanza Espino, a psychologist at Loyola University, "It's not that they don't want to communicate, but they do it differently." This preference for text communication is not simply a matter of convenience. Many young people interviewed expressed feelings of anxiety and a lack of confidence when faced with a live phone conversation. The immediacy and directness of a phone call can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of pressure and uncertainty. One young woman stated, "If a call catches me off guard, it's like, 'Okay, this person, what do they want? What are they going to say?'." However, this is not an insurmountable challenge. Psychologists, like Angeles Franqueira, emphasize the importance of teaching young people the skills they need to feel comfortable making phone calls. "It's learned by doing it," she explains. With practice and support, young people can overcome their anxiety and develop more confidence in their communication skills. The ability to confidently make phone calls remains a valuable skill in both personal and professional life, and with the right approach, young people can learn to embrace this form of communication.