Cynthia de las Fuentes, PhD President at American Psychological Association | Official website
A recent survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) reveals that younger workers are experiencing heightened levels of stress, loneliness, and feelings of being undervalued in the workplace. The 2024 Work in America survey, conducted online by The Harris Poll among over 2,000 working U.S. adults, highlights significant generational differences in workplace experiences.
According to the survey, nearly one-third of U.S. workers reported that colleagues who are not close to their age do not value their ideas (32%). This sentiment was notably higher among workers aged 18–25 (48%) compared to those aged 65 and older (16%). Additionally, younger workers (ages 18–25 and 26–43) were more likely than older age groups to prefer working with peers of a similar age.
Despite these challenges, most working adults appreciate intergenerational collaboration. A vast majority (92%) value the opportunity to work with people from different age groups, and 87% believe it benefits their workplace. However, concerns about job security due to age persist for a quarter of respondents.
Feelings of loneliness also disproportionately affect younger employees; nearly half (45%) of those aged 18–25 reported feeling lonely at work. This is significantly higher than other age groups surveyed. Younger workers also report higher levels of tension or stress during their workday compared to older counterparts.
Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, APA’s chief executive officer, commented on the evolving workplace dynamics: “With more workers retiring later in life...younger workers seem to be having the hardest time adjusting.” He emphasized the need for employers to invest in strategies supporting mental health and well-being amid changing professional landscapes.
The survey further found that a third of U.S. workers feel they lack control over when, where, and how they work. Preferences for work location vary: while most currently work entirely in person (59%), only 38% prefer this arrangement; others favor hybrid or remote setups.
Other notable findings include an increase in four-day workweeks offered by employers—from 14% in 2022 to 22% in 2024—and widespread use of AI without sufficient employer guidance. Over one-third of workers use AI regularly for tasks but less than one-fifth know if there is an official policy on its use.
Workplace burnout remains prevalent; two-thirds reported experiencing symptoms like low energy or motivation recently. Psychological safety—feeling comfortable expressing oneself without fear—correlates with better workplace experiences and lower perceptions of toxicity.
However, disparities exist for disabled workers regarding psychological safety and respect for time off. Many express concerns about AI potentially making their roles obsolete.
Evans highlighted the importance of creating psychologically safe environments: “Psychological safety not only enhances individual employee well-being but strengthens the organization...fostering creativity [and] innovation.”
For detailed findings from the latest Work in America survey, refer to the "2024 Work in America: Psychological Safety in the Changing Workplace" report available online.
