In a twist that might surprise some adults, young people themselves are saying: maybe we shouldn’t be online so early.
According to a new UK Youth Poll, which surveyed over 2,000 people aged 16 to 29, a majority think social media should have age restrictions. Specifically, two-thirds believe it should be banned for those under 16—a clear signal that Gen Z is growing increasingly aware of the downsides of the digital world.
And while social media was a big focus, the poll dug deeper into the minds of modern youth.
Here’s what they’re thinking:
- 💻 66% say social media should be banned for under-16s
- 🧠 Toxic masculinity is on the rise, according to two-thirds of respondents
- 💼 Financial stress, job security, and work pressure top the list of anxiety sources
- 🌈 63% remain optimistic about their futures
- 😄 72% say they’re either “rather” or “very” happy
But don’t assume all young people think the same. According to James Kanagasooriam, chief research officer at polling company Focaldata, there are deep divides within the generation itself. He notes that class, education, gender, ethnicity, and region all play major roles in shaping how young adults think.
“These patterns challenge any simple characterization of Gen Z,” Kanagasooriam explained. “They are largely independent-minded, unexpectedly energized in the conservative flank, and more willing to participate in civic life than society often assumes.”
So next time someone brushes off the younger generation as just a bunch of TikTok-obsessed doom scrollers, show them this: Gen Z is paying attention—and they’ve got opinions, boundaries, and some serious hopes for the future.
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