Young Americans aren’t buying it.
Americans age 12 to 26 don’t have much trust in institutions, according to poll results released Thursday by Gallup and the Walton Family Foundation.
Participants in this sample of more than 3,100 young Americans answered survey questions from April 24 to May 8.
This survey is “one of the largest and most comprehensive national research panels to track sentiment and behavior of this generation over time. Having the ability to compare this youngest generation to older ones will reveal new insights as to how this generation is different from those before,” per a press release.
Gen Z’s confidence in the news and technology companies was particularly low, at 16% and 17% respectively. They also had little confidence in the criminal justice system (23%), police (38%), the military (40%) and the medical system (45%).
Teachers (63%) and science (71%) were more trusted by Gen Z respondents. Overall, 52% of Gen Z said their school work challenges them in a good way.
However, most middle and high schoolers said their schools do not provide practical learning experiences that could help them enter the workforce. Just 29% said their schools offered them opportunities to learn skills like applying for a job and 44% of Gen Z students reported that they feel prepared for their future.
Additionally, only 47% of Gen Z is thriving today, per the survey results. That’s lower than older generations, including: millennials (59%), Gen X (57%) and baby boomers (52%).
“Furthermore, Gen Z Americans are thriving at a lower rate than millennials were at the same age, according to Gallup polling,” the press release said. More Gen Z participants also reported having poor mental health compared to other generations.
Audacy reported last month on another survey that indicated Gen Zers are stressed about food and believe that their eating patterns are wrong. The Audacy podcast “It’s Generational” also dives into specific challenges baby boomers, Gen Xers, millennials and Gen Z face.
Although they have low confidence in many institutions, Gen Z appears to be optimistic about the future. This is especially true for Black Gen Zers. At the same time, many are concerned about their ability to pay for college and to make enough money to support themselves.
“Empowering Gen Z to achieve their goals and aspirations requires that schools provide students with relevant experiences and education that will help them navigate the workforce,” said Stephanie Marken, Gallup partner and executive director for education research. “For those students who want to pursue postsecondary education, we have work to do to communicate affordable paths to education and training beyond high school so that every student can realize post-high school dreams.”