Acceptance of Covid-19 related measures, which are (still) in place, such as keeping your distance, washing hands and wearing masks (66%), as well as considering the safety of family members, friends and others (61%) is still high. However, “at the same time, the young generation is at the end of its patience,” says educationalist Klaus Hurrelmann. Together with youth researcher Simon Schnetzer, he examined the mood of adolescents and young adults in Germany in the study “Youth and Corona in Germany“.

For this study, a nationally representative sample of 14–29-year-olds was surveyed in mid-May 2021 on the basis of the respondi panel. Additional qualitative interviews were conducted for more in-depth analysis.

Most young people (60%) would be willing to be vaccinated immediately. However, many are irritated at being on the bottom rung of the priority list ladder; after months of demonstrating solidarity with the older generations.

The decline in motivation among school pupils, trainees and students is particularly evident. On the other hand, young people who have jobs feel less frustrated. Overall, the perceived stress is high: 53% report their mental health has deteriorated, 48% report losing control over their lives. The feeling of losing control, accompanied by the sense of being robbed of their youth, is the biggest problem, according to Simon Schnetzer. The youth urgently need a say in further political decisions. They continue to show solidarity – but for how long?