On the morning of 28 January 2026, at Hall A116, Nguyen Dinh Chieu Campus, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) hosted the talkshow “Gen Z and Love in the Digital Age: Are You a Red Flag, Beige Flag, or Green Flag?”
In an era where connections often begin with a swipe and sometimes end in silence, the program offered a timely pause for students to reflect on, understand, and redefine the values of romantic and interpersonal relationships.
Decoding the “Flags” in the Emotional Maze
Led by sociologist Dr. Pham Thi Thuy and psychologist Dr. Nguyen Hoang Khac Hieu, concepts such as Red Flag, Beige Flag, and Green Flag were examined beyond social media trends through the lens of behavioral science.
Speakers helped students identify:
- Red Flags: Warning signs of value-eroding relationships, including excessive control and manipulative behaviors such as love bombing.
- Beige Flags: Harmless yet quirky differences in personality; learning to accept them was framed as a first step toward empathy and emotional maturity.
- Green Flags: Markers of healthy relationships where authenticity, active listening, and respect for personal boundaries are upheld.
Speakers sharing and analyzing relationship indicators among Gen Z
Loving Without Losing Yourself
A key highlight was the application of established psychological frameworks, including Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love (Passion – Intimacy – Commitment) and the Five Love Languages. Beyond practical guidance, the speakers posed reflective questions such as: Why do we choose ambiguity despite genuine feelings? and How can attraction be built without compromising personal identity?
Through an interactive activity comparing traditional and contemporary “relationship sequences,” Dr. Nguyen Hoang Khac Hieu offered a light-hearted yet insightful contrast between past and present, helping Gen Z explore relationship models that align with their own values.
Meaningful love requires commitment and selflessness. In a digital world shaped by algorithms, the heart must be guided by clarity of mind and self-compassion before seeking resonance with others.
The discussion and Q&A session was dynamic, with students raising challenging topics—from exiting toxic relationships to navigating opposite-sex friendships. Empathetic, practical responses from the speakers helped untangle concerns and empowered students to better position themselves within their relationships.
Students actively sharing perspectives and asking questions
The program concluded with the hope that every UEHer leaves equipped with emotional resilience, able to read the signals, stay grounded, and build healthy, high-quality relationships in the digital age.
Organizers, speakers, and students in a group photo after the program
News & photos: Department of Student Affairs