The Gen Z stare is a recent topic of debate on TikTok, where different generations argue over whether it's rude, a symptom of overwhelm, a product of growing up during the pandemic, a communication deficit or just another generational stereotype.

Now, to be fair to zoomers, a few weeks ago there were a few posts — and a write-up from the New York Post, naturally — complaining about the Gen Z "gaze" from service workers. That's seemingly related to the "stare" debate now, but it's certainly evolved.

Banarsë compared it to the "Millennial Pause," a brief moment of silence before speaking in a video, adding that today's social quirks go viral more quickly. Banarsë added that the stare is part of Gen Z's move toward authenticity and boundary-setting—where emotional labor isn't automatically performed to meet outdated norms.

What is the "Gen Z Stare?" Older TikTok users say that Gen Z workers often give blank, unresponsive stares. Gen Zers are pushing back.

A generational debate has started over Gen Z’s tendency to respond to various social situations with a long and intentional stare.