Money Dysmorphia: A Phenomenon Many Gen Z Are Experiencing Today
In the era of social media filled with glamorous lifestyles and financial achievements, many young people—especially Generation Z—are beginning to experience a psychological phenomenon called money dysmorphia. This term describes a condition where someone feels financially inadequate, even though objectively they are actually in a stable or good position.
What Is Money Dysmorphia?
Money dysmorphia can be compared to body dysmorphia, but with a focus on finances. Those who experience it often feel poor, left behind, or unsuccessful financially, when in reality they might already be in a relatively secure position.
This phenomenon isn’t just about money itself—it’s also about how we perceive our self-worth through the lens of finances.
Why Is Gen Z Vulnerable to It?
Several factors make young people, especially Gen Z, more prone to money dysmorphia, including:
- Social media influence: Constantly seeing others show off achievements, luxury vacations, or expensive items makes the standard of living feel higher.
- Global economic crisis: Rising costs of necessities, competitive job markets, and increasing living expenses.
- Pressure to succeed early: Many Gen Z feel like failures if they don’t already own assets, investments, or have high income at a young age.
- Social comparison: The habit of comparing themselves to peers or influencers reinforces the sense of “not enough.”
Signs of Experiencing Money Dysmorphia
- Always feeling like you don’t have enough money, even with stable savings and income.
- Excessive anxiety about financial security in the future.
- Constantly comparing yourself to others’ financial achievements.
- Struggling to enjoy the fruits of your labor because you feel it’s still not enough.
- Measuring your self-worth solely based on financial status.
The Impact It Can Cause
Money dysmorphia can lead to chronic stress, lack of gratitude, and unhealthy financial decisions—such as overworking, going into debt for lifestyle purposes, or delaying important life decisions out of fear of running out of money.
How to Overcome Money Dysmorphia
- Acknowledge your personal financial reality instead of others’ standards.
- Set realistic financial goals based on your own situation.
- Limit exposure to social media that triggers excessive comparison.
- Learn financial management to feel more confident about handling money.
- Practice gratitude for what you already have.
Money dysmorphia reflects the mental and emotional challenges faced by many Gen Z amid social and economic pressures. Realizing that everyone’s definition of “enough” is different is the key to breaking free from this trap. Instead of constant comparison, it’s far better to focus on your own progress and manage finances wisely.
