Gen Z’s Reading Habits Revealed: Survey Shows Shift Toward Digital and Short-Form Content
📷 Image source: i.insider.com
A recent survey conducted by Business Insider sheds light on the evolving reading habits of Generation Z, highlighting a strong preference for digital platforms and bite-sized content. The study, which polled over 2,000 respondents aged 18-25, found that 68% primarily consume news and articles through social media apps like Instagram and TikTok, rather than traditional websites or print media.
Short-form videos and infographics ranked as the most engaging formats, with 72% of participants admitting they rarely read articles longer than 1,000 words. 'If it doesn’t grab me in the first few seconds, I’ll just scroll past,' said one respondent, echoing a common sentiment among the demographic.
Interestingly, while Gen Z values convenience, they also prioritize credibility. Over 60% reported cross-checking facts with alternative sources before sharing content, suggesting a cautious approach to online information. This aligns with broader trends observed in a 2024 Pew Research study, which noted heightened media literacy among younger audiences.
Publishers are taking note, with many outlets experimenting with interactive storytelling and vertical video formats to cater to these preferences. However, some experts warn that the shift toward brevity could come at the cost of nuanced reporting—a tension the industry continues to navigate.
