Friendship is something most of us have experienced in our lives. Being a part of a group with similar interests is great for mental health and support through good and bad times. In 2025, however, finding these essential communities is more difficult now than ever, partially because of increasing social polarization, the rise of cancel culture, and a growing sense of individualism.

In a YouTube video uploaded by imuRgency titled “Gen Z Sucks at Friendship And It’s Only Getting Worse,” the creator discusses various reasons why Gen Z struggles to maintain healthy friendship. One of the points mentioned is the rise in cancel culture, an issue that extends beyond Gen Z to society as a whole. “Cancelling” others has contributed to the deterioration of friendships, often because of differing opinions or minor personality traits. One can be “cancelled” over anything from a minor disagreement about music preferences to a serious political or social issue. 

imuRgency terms minor personality traits as a “character flaw” or “fatal flaw,” which is a characteristic that a person has which is not done maliciously but may cause issues within a friendship. An example of this is someone who is always late, even though they are aware of it and apologetic. Being cut off for having differing opinions or traits reveals a lack of open mindedness, grace, and communication. This is especially prevalent after the recent presidential election, which has made the social climate as a whole more polarizing and isolating. These negative experiences promote an individualistic mindset–the idea that people owe nothing to others and are better off on their own.

Focusing on one specific aspect or fault of a person is not only shallow and unfair, but it perpetuates the cycle of loneliness currently plaguing Gen Z. Viewing anything from a black and white perspective is detrimental to creating healthy friendship and having empathy for others. 

I am not exempt from distancing myself from others with different opinions on matters I care about. But, it is this awareness that I and others should have in order to break the cycle and foster better communities.

Takeaway

The African proverb “it takes a village to raise a child” applies to friendships as well. It takes perspectives from people with similar and different backgrounds to create a more well-rounded person. It expands our thinking and paves the way for flourishing friendships. As such, it’s important to not jump to conclusions quickly and instead have in-depth conversations to get a better picture of others. Try to listen actively. Be constructive rather than destructive in disagreements. Finally, practice having more empathy for others rather than shutting them out completely.