New poll reveals Gen Z doesn't know how to change a lightbulb—fear they’re ‘too hot'

We’ve all heard jokes about Gen Z struggling with tasks unrelated to screens. A new poll reveals just how accurate those jokes might be. In fact, it turns out that a significant portion of this generation cannot handle basic tasks like changing a lightbulb. Yes, you read that right. A new study by Halfords, a UK-based motoring and cycling retailer, found that nearly 25% of Gen Z—those aged 18 to 27—don’t know how to change a ceiling lamp’s lightbulb, as reported by the New York Post. Even more surprising are the reasons given: many believe climbing a ladder is “too dangerous,” and some worry the bulb might be “too hot.”

A lot of them prefer to “Get Others To Do It” (GOTDIT), as the researchers put it. “The ability to do basic, practical tasks is being lost amongst younger generations,” said Andy Turbefield from Halfords, per Sky News. Yamalis Diaz, a New York University Langone psychologist, added that this generation has never had to do these things for themselves. “They simply haven’t really had to [do things for themselves],” Diaz said. “So much of their (and all of our) lives are automated, convenient and outsourced, which today’s generation of young people have benefited from way more than past generations.”

With apps delivering anything you need and technology automating daily tasks, it’s no surprise that younger generations might miss out on learning the practical skills their predecessors considered essential. But it’s not just lightbulbs that leave Gen Z puzzled. The survey uncovered even more surprising statistics about their struggles with basic maintenance tasks. Many admitted they couldn’t clean a car, add air to a tire, or change a windshield wiper blade. Shockingly, one in three couldn’t identify a flathead screwdriver, while 21% didn’t recognize a wrench. Even more surprising, 10% said they would hire a professional to hang a picture on the wall.

This behavior has contributed to Gen Z's reputation for being “lazy” or “entitled,” and the survey data does little to counter the stereotype. According to the findings, Gen Z spends over $1,500 annually hiring professionals for tasks many consider basic household chores. In contrast, Gen Xers spend around $470, while baby boomers allocate just $300. Clearly, this generation values convenience—but what does that say about their skill set, or lack thereof?

Gen Z in New York City, for example, has rejected the stereotype of being lazy. They argue that they’re simply delegating tasks they don’t have the time or energy to handle. They live in a world where everything is automated, so why not outsource things like changing a lightbulb? Irrespective of whether this behavior is due to laziness or just a shift in priorities, it has raised concerns about future generations. Experts like Diaz warn that this trend could extend to the younger generations that follow, like Gen Alpha and Gen Beta. She suggests that parents should start teaching their kids essential life skills now before they get too accustomed to a world where everything is just a click away.