Research Reveals Teens Have Negative Feelings Toward News Media

Teens Distrust and Dislike News Media

Teens often feel skeptical about news media, and the Associated Press isn’t thrilled about that.

When the News Literacy Project asked teenagers to describe news media in a single word, a staggering 84 percent of the responses were negative. Words like “biased,” “crazy,” “boring,” “fake,” “bad,” “depressing,” “confusing,” and “scary” dominated the list. I mean, “shit” probably wasn’t an option, but I wouldn’t be surprised if someone thought it.

Around half of the teens surveyed expressed a belief that journalists tend to favor advertisers, create fake details, or pay sources for information. Additionally, nearly 60% claimed that journalists frequently take images and videos out of context. Less than one-third thought reporters make corrections when they’re wrong, verify facts, consult multiple sources, or cover stories that genuinely serve public interest.

Of course, the Associated Press points fingers at former President Trump. They argued that, “To some extent, teens mirror the attitudes they are exposed to, especially when the most prominent politicians of their age group embrace ‘fake news.'”

It’s hard to believe that teenagers’ negative views on news media have no connection to growing up in a time rife with misinformation. But, who knows?

The Associated Press has suggested that schools should start teaching media literacy classes. “This is one of the insights 16-year-old Brianne Boyack gained from her news literacy course,” they curiously noted. She had been doubtful about news credibility but came to understand the value of checking sources and seeking trustworthy outlets when something caught her interest.

From a broader perspective, I think it’s quite healthy for young people to be skeptical and uninterested in news media. Ideally, teenagers should focus on who they are, gain experience, and lay the groundwork for their futures without fretting too much about external issues. If some of them do decide to pursue journalism, that’s perfectly fine.

Honestly, there’s not much that could ruin that youthful spirit faster than stressing over world events.

Let kids enjoy their youth. Allow teenagers to explore their interests naturally. Some might stumble upon a passion for journalism or current affairs. Others might find themselves more intrigued by, say, sneaking out for a drive-in movie instead of worrying about global issues.

To me, pushing “social justice” onto young people feels like robbing them of their innocence and the joy that comes with being carefree. There will always be time for them to grapple with uncontrollable problems and the complexities of the real world.