The impact of virtual space on communication of representatives of generations Z and Y

The purpose of this study is to analyze the degree and nature of involvement of Generations Z and Y in virtual space and its impact on social perception and empathy. The authors examine the concept of cyber socialization and its effect on the conventional process of socialization. The paper shows the results of an empirical survey (N = 186). It identifies that both generations are equally involved in virtual reality. The representatives of Generation Z begin to use the Internet earlier than Millennials. The number of hits on e-resources does not depend on the age, i.e. the most representatives of both groups are almost constantly online. Generation Y uses the Internet for work purposes, searching and sharing information, while Generation Z surfs the Internet for communication and entertainment. The authors emphasize that the more a person goes on the Internet, the more he trusts the web information. Therefore, Generation Z has more confidence in online data compared with Millennials. Moreover, the representatives of Gen Z have a greater need for self-expression, sharing their opinion, self-affirmation. The study does not reveal the reduced empathy in respondents; however, this figure is slightly higher in students than in school students.