Abstract Background: Gen Z refers to those born between 1997 - 2012. They are claimed to be tech-obsessed and self-absorbed. It becomes essential to measure if technological advancement has made them less empathetic or detached from the traditional social context and where their happiness is rooted. Aim and Objectives: The present study measured the level of empathy, major sources of happiness, and social networking among Gen Z in India. Materials and Methods: A sample of 175 between the ages of 13-17 years participated through purposive sampling and completed a self-administered questionnaire, assessing the Empathy Scale, Social Networking Usage and Happiness. Results: The results suggest Gen Z in India displayed a significant level of empathy with 72% and 13% falling in the average and high range of empathy, respectively, with empathy levels of females being higher than that of males. Gen Z in India also had a high immersion in social networking. Regression analysis demonstrated that time spent on social media did not account for any change in the level of empathy for Gen Z, thus establishing no association between the two variables. Conclusion: However, Gen Z with a high level of empathy shared a significant relationship with four out of eight sources of happiness. These included life satisfaction, emotional well-being, managing time, and purpose of life.
Patel et al. (Tue,) studied this question.