Zodiacs, horoscopes and star signs are all concepts to do with the positioning of the planets, stars and moons. It it is the idea that these positionings and constellations can all say something about our personalities, and even make predictions about the future.
In recent years, the popularity of astrology seems to have been on the rise and Gen-Z may be the reason behind it.
Climate change, debt, increasing costs of living and the rising age of retirement are only a handful of problems that face Gen-Z. So, in a modern world that is so uncertain, is it unreasonable that that people look to whatever sources they can for comfort?
In 1982, a study by the psychologist Graham Tyson found that people turn to astrology as a comfort when under stress and use astrology as a coping mechanism.
40 years later, the study is just as relevant. A study by the American Psychological Association (2016), found that Gen Z is the most stressed generation living.
Additionally, Deloitte’s 10th annual millennial and Gen Z survey found that 46% of Gen Zs, across 45 different countries, feel anxious or stressed most of the time.
The stress and uncertainty surrounding the future can be overwhelming for many, so when astrology has the ability to offer a prediction for what is going to happen, it can seem like a safe haven to seek guidance.
Looking at a horoscope to understand more about yourself, what you should look out for and how to best deal with any issues that may seem peculiar to some but, for others, it can offer solace.
Lucy Bevan, 19, says that: “I think horoscopes validate how I feel, because it gives me an explanation to why I feel a certain way and it helps me feel understood. It also offers comfort to me that I know what is destined for me will happen, because I believe in the power of Mother Nature.”
Horoscopes and star signs can offer explanations for high emotions, bad decisions and things we may not understand. The idea that “everything happens for a reason” can be hard to comprehend when you don’t yet understand the reason why.
So, when there is an explanation what is causing something to happen, it can help a person to rationalise a situation and bring about a peace of mind. It is easier to say emotions have been running high this week because Mercury is in retrograde – and not just because you’ve had a bad week.
People don’t like being taken by surprise and being unprepared. And in a world that is full of uncertainties, people turn to places they feel can guide them and take comfort in believing that they are somewhat prepared for what life may throw at them.
