Cognitive and Value Transformations of Modern Youth in the Context of Digitalization

The article analyzes the phenomenon of “clip thinking” as a concept widely used in the humanities to explain the negative trends that older generations face when interacting with young people. In particular, university professors note a decrease in the ability to concentrate for a long time, social cynicism, and even intellectual degradation of young people. Despite the active use of the term “clip thinking” in Russian science, there is no neurophysiological verification of it, which creates a gap in understanding the adaptive mechanisms of the younger generation. There is also an idea of some features of the value orientations of modern youth that can affect mutual understanding between representatives of different generations. The article proposes to contrast the concept of “clip thinking” with the concept of “digital thinking” as the ability to systematize information and work with algorithms. Representatives of Generation Z demonstrate the work of compensatory mechanisms due to neuroplasticity. The concept of “clip thinking” requires revision in favor of the adaptive multifocality model. Based on empirical data, the value profiles of different generations (BB, X, Y, Z) were studied and specific features of generation Z were identified. The value profile of generation Z is characterized by the dominance of hedonism, achievements and independence with a decrease in the importance of traditions, which relates to the motivational focus of “openness to change and self-affirmation”. As the analysis showed, the personality of a representative of generation Z is quite pragmatic and practical. It is these personal qualities and values that allow one to achieve success in the existing competitive social environment and demonstrate the adaptation strategies of young people in conditions of “great uncertainty”.

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