I dunno, just my view, but I think it is just a generational thing with young adults now growing up with computers, gaming etc. Older ultralight type aircraft, which there are really a lot of around and quite cheap to buy, simply don't rate with this generation. Not fast enough, too much trouble to learn in, ancient technology(apparently). Hell, these kids don't even want a push bike any more.
I tried to get my son interested, he enjoyed the actual flying, but bailed out when he perceived the work load of studying the BAK and nav, met etc as "uncool and over the top Dad" Can't I just fly the thing? Maintenance, preflight, commonsense, WTF? And travel to the airstrip.....I enjoy the country drive......it's just a chore for these young adults, looking at there smart phones all the way. The magic of flight just doesn't have the same impact as in my generation. They just don't seem able to smell the roses anymore............