Student Protests in Quiz Competition, Psychologist: Gen Z More Courageous in Fighting for Justice

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – Child and family psychologist Astrid Wen has responded to the judging system in the Empat Pilar MPR RI 2026 quiz competition at the provincial level in West Kalimantan. The competition video went viral after a female student protested receiving a minus 5 for her correct answer. The student protested repeatedly, but the judges did not heed her. According to Astrid, this incident is not merely about the quiz competition but reflects how authorities respond to criticism. She also highlighted the courage of young people, particularly Generation Z, in expressing their opinions. Astrid stated that various studies show Gen Z grew up with broader access to information, a more open discussion culture, and higher awareness of their right to be heard. Therefore, it is not surprising that this generation is more daring to speak up. “They tend to be more expressive and bolder in questioning something they consider unfair. However, it is important to understand that their courage is often not to humiliate authority but to ensure objectivity and consistency,” Astrid said when contacted by Republika on Tuesday (12/5/2026). Meanwhile, previous generations such as baby boomers, Generation X, and some millennials were raised in a hierarchical culture. According to Astrid, those generations were often taught from a young age that contradicting adults is considered impolite.