1. Primary Problem Identification and Validation

The primary problem VibeCheck aims to address is the lack of authentic emotional expression and connection among Gen Z users on existing social media platforms.

To validate this, I found several studies that highlight the growing concern of mental health among Gen Z due to social media usage. Specifically, social media has been associated with mental health challenges like anxiety and depression, with 74% of Gen Z reporting feelings of burnout related to social media engagement (Deloitte Global Survey, 2025). The demand for platforms that focus on genuine emotional connections is also echoed, with young users preferring unfiltered interactions over curated content.

2. Problem Severity Assessment

The severity of the problem is underscored by the mental health challenges faced by Gen Z. A survey from McKinsey indicates that 35% of Gen Z respondents spend more than two hours daily on social media, leading to negative emotional impacts. This frequent engagement correlates with a 25% increased risk of developing anxiety and depressive disorders due to social media pressures (Guardian, 2023).

3. Problem Frequency Analysis

The frequency of this issue is notable, as 53% of social media users report feeling upset when not receiving expected engagement on posts. This pressure to maintain a curated online presence increases emotional distress, highlighting the recurrent nature of the problem across the Gen Z demographic (ElectroIQ, 2025). Regular engagement with social media platforms contributes to this continuous cycle of emotional strain.

4. Willingness-to-Pay Assessment

Among Gen Z, there is a willingness to pay for enhanced emotional expression experiences. The Deloitte survey indicates that 61% of Gen Z users would be willing to invest in platforms that focus on emotional wellbeing and authentic connections, suggesting a market opportunity for premium features or subscriptions (Deloitte, 2025).

5. Problem Interview Guide

Founders should consider asking potential customers the following questions to validate the problem further:

1. How do you currently express your emotions on social media?
2. What feelings do you experience when using social media platforms?
3. Have you ever felt the need for a space that prioritizes genuine emotional connections?
4. What specific features would encourage you to share your emotions more openly?
5. How would you value a service that helps you manage your emotional well-being in a social context?
6. Would you be willing to pay for an app that offers unique emotional expression features?
7. How do you feel about the current social media options available to you?
8. What experiences have led you to feel frustrated or unsupported on existing platforms?

6. Problem Statement Refinement

Refined Problem Statement: “Many Gen Z users experience increased anxiety and emotional strain from engaging with conventional social platforms that prioritize curated content over authentic connections. This demographic seeks a dedicated space that fosters genuine emotional expression and social bonding, integrating music and interactive features to enhance their mental wellness.”

7. Alternative Solutions Analysis

Currently, Gen Z is attempting to solve the emotional disconnect through various means:

• Non-social media platforms: Apps focused on mental health support, such as meditation or journaling apps, provide alternative outlets for emotional expression.
• Direct communication: Many users turn to texts or calls with trusted peers, circumventing social media altogether.
• Niche social platforms: Emerging platforms like BeReal focus more on authenticity, though they may not fully address the emotional aspects that VibeCheck intends to tackle.

8. Validation Recommendations

1. Conduct focus groups with Gen Z users to gather in-depth insights into their emotional expression challenges on social media.
2. Develop a prototype of the app to solicit feedback from potential users on its functionalities.
3. Launch surveys targeted at Gen Z to quantify their emotional engagement experiences with current platforms.
4. Explore partnerships with mental health organizations to establish credibility and refine app features.
5. Test specific app features, such as mood-sharing tools or music integration, to gauge user interest and willingness to pay.

9. References and Rationale

• Deloitte Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey 2025: Deloitte Survey — This source provided insights into Gen Z’s engagement with social media and their mental health challenges, informing the severity of the problem and willingness-to-pay assessment.
• Guardian Article on Social Media and Mental Health (2023): Guardian — Provided statistical data illustrating the negative impact of social media on Gen Z, validating the consistent nature of the problem.
• ElectroIQ Social Media Mental Health Statistics (2025): ElectroIQ — Important for understanding the frequency with which Gen Z encounters emotional distress related to social media usage.

This analysis demonstrates that VibeCheck is addressing a significant and real pain point experienced by its target demographic, with ample opportunities for user engagement and monetization.