Move over, arachnophobia – there's a new fear gripping Generation Z, and it's brewing in coffee shops across the UK. Dubbed 'baristaphobia', this social anxiety manifests when young adults face the daunting task of ordering their flat white or caramel macchiato.
The caffeine conundrum
Psychologists suggest this phenomenon stems from multiple modern pressures:
- The performative nature of customised coffee orders
- Fear of mispronouncing foreign-sounding drink names
- Social media-induced self-consciousness
- Pressure to tip appropriately in cashless environments
A generational divide
While millennials perfected the art of complicated coffee orders, Gen Z appears to be retreating. "There's this overwhelming sense you're being judged," explains 19-year-old London student Mia Thompson. "From your drink choice to how you say 'oat milk', every detail feels like a test."
The barista perspective
Industry professionals report noticing this trend. "We see younger customers rehearsing orders outside or sending friends in first," says Manchester café owner James Wilson. "Some even wait for quieter periods to avoid an audience."
Mental health experts warn that while some social anxiety is normal, avoidance behaviours can reinforce fears. They recommend gradual exposure and remembering that baristas genuinely don't judge your order – no matter how you pronounce 'croissant'.
