September 18, 2024 A recent survey has uncovered a surprising trend among Gen Z adults: nearly half wish that popular social media platforms like TikTok and X had never been invented. This revelation comes from a nationally representative poll of 1,006 Gen Z adults, conducted by social psychologist Jonathan Haidt and the Harris Poll.
The survey found that 47% of respondents wish TikTok didn’t exist, while 50% feel the same about X. These statistics are particularly striking given that 60% of Gen Z spends an average of four hours daily on social media, with 23% logging seven or more hours.
Despite the high usage, 60% of respondents believe social media negatively impacts society. The survey also revealed disparities in perceived benefits among different groups. For instance, 44% of women and 47% of LGBTQ respondents reported that social media has negatively affected their mental health, compared to 31% of men and 35% of non-LGBTQ respondents.
Interestingly, while many Gen Zers express regret over social media platforms, they show less concern about smartphones, messaging apps, and streaming services. This suggests that the core issues lie with the addictive nature of social media rather than digital technology as a whole.
The findings have reignited discussions about online safety for young users. With 69% of respondents supporting laws requiring child-safe options for social media, there’s growing pressure on tech companies and legislators to address these concerns.
As we navigate the complex relationship between technology and well-being, these insights from Gen Z offer a crucial perspective on the future of social media and digital interaction.
