A new report from DAK health insurance highlights growing intergenerational friction in the German workplace, impacting a significant portion of the workforce. The “Gen Z in the World of Work” report, released Tuesday, indicates that approximately one in four employed individuals in Germany experiences conflict stemming from generational differences.
The report found that younger employees, particularly those belonging to Generation Z (born between 1995 and 2010), are disproportionately affected. Nearly 28% of Gen Z workers report experiencing these intergenerational tensions, exceeding the average for all employees. Of those experiencing conflict, 25% report feeling strongly or very strongly burdened by it. This younger demographic constitutes roughly one-fifth of Germany’s 43 million employed individuals, making their integration and well-being increasingly important.
The sectors experiencing the highest prevalence of these conflicts are healthcare and childcare professions, with 30% of workers reporting issues. The data processing sector reports the lowest incidence at 12%. The report highlights that young employees are particularly vulnerable when working within teams comprised primarily of older colleagues, experiencing conflict more often when in the minority.
Conversely, employees who do not experience intergenerational conflict demonstrate higher levels of job satisfaction. Nearly a third express complete satisfaction, compared to just one-fifth among those facing friction. Overall, only 26% of those under 30 report high job satisfaction, a decline from previous surveys. Young employees have voiced concerns regarding workplace climate, career development opportunities and health protection.
Analysis of sick leave data reveals that employees under 30 had a sickness rate of 4.7% in 2024, lower than the overall DAK-insured workforce (5.4%). While experiencing a higher frequency of sickness spells, young employees typically take shorter periods of leave. However, they are also more likely to report instances of presenteeism – working while unwell.
A majority (65%) report working while ill at least once in the past year, primarily due to concerns about impacting teammates or fearing negative consequences for reporting absences.
Health data also reveals discrepancies in the reasons for absence, with those under 30 experiencing more respiratory-related sick days and fewer musculoskeletal issues compared to the overall insured population. Psychologically driven absenteeism appears to be a more significant factor for Gen Z, with over one-quarter reporting depressive symptoms like sadness or a lack of interest in the preceding two weeks.