Shining Science
@ShiningScience
Global data reveals Gen Z is the first generation to underperform their parents in attention, memory, and literacy skills. For decades, global intelligence scores followed an upward trajectory known as the Flynn Effect.
However, new neuroscientific research suggests this trend has sharply reversed. According to data from over 80 countries presented by Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, Generation Z is the first demographic to score lower on key cognitive measures—including IQ, memory, and numeracy—than the Millennials who preceded them. This downturn, which became noticeable around 2010, marks a significant shift in human cognitive development, raising concerns about the long-term impact of modern digital environments on brain function.
Researchers point toward the ubiquitous presence of digital technology as a primary driver for these changes. As screen time increases, it often replaces the deep, interactive learning experiences necessary for building complex neural pathways. Critics emphasize that the shift away from critical thinking toward passive consumption may be fundamentally altering how the younger generation processes information.
To combat this decline, experts are urging a return to balanced digital habits and richer, more immersive learning environments that challenge the mind beyond the digital interface. source: Horvath, J. C. (2026). Digital saturation and the reversal of the Flynn Effect in Generation Z. University of Melbourne Research Reports.
About michelleclarke2015
Life event that changes all: Horse riding accident in Zimbabwe in 1993, a fractured skull et al including bipolar anxiety, chronic fatigue …. co-morbidities (Nietzche 'He who has the reason why can deal with any how' details my health history from 1993 to date). 17th 2017 August operation for breast cancer (no indications just an appointment came from BreastCheck through the Post). Trinity College Dublin Business Economics and Social Studies (but no degree) 1997-2003; UCD 1997/1998 night classes) essays, projects, writings. Trinity Horizon Programme 1997/98 (Centre for Women Studies Trinity College Dublin/St. Patrick's Foundation (Professor McKeon) EU Horizon funded: research study of 15 women (I was one of this group and it became the cornerstone of my journey to now 2017) over 9 mth period diagnosed with depression and their reintegration into society, with special emphasis on work, arts, further education; Notes from time at Trinity Horizon Project 1997/98; Articles written for Irishhealth.com 2003/2004; St Patricks Foundation monthly lecture notes for a specific period in time; Selection of Poetry including poems written by people I know; Quotations 1998-2017; other writings mainly with theme of social justice under the heading Citizen Journalism Ireland. Letters written to friends about life in Zimbabwe; Family history including Michael Comyn KC, my grandfather, my grandmother's family, the O'Donnellan ffrench Blake-Forsters; Moral wrong: An acrimonious divorce but the real injustice was the Catholic Church granting an annulment – you can read it and make your own judgment, I have mine. Topics I have written about include annual Brain Awareness week, Mashonaland Irish Associataion in Zimbabwe, Suicide (a life sentence to those left behind); Nostalgia: Tara Hill, Co. Meath.
canisgallicus 