In Ireland, Gen Z's interest in traditional news outlets has plummeted as they turn to platforms like TikTok for bitesize news consumption. With many experiencing burnout from a near-constant negative news cycle, younger cohorts are searching for alternate sources of news and information.
Conventional sources of news may have served older generations well, but as younger generations' values, interests, and media habits shift they are embracing new sources of news consumption that feel personalised and tailored to their needs.
Research from Reuters Institute has found that just 28% of Irish Gen Zers are 'extremely' or 'very' interested in the news, which is a steep decline from the 53% recorded in 2016. The report also found that young people are turning to alternative news sources like TikTok for the information they feel they need to know, with a fifth reporting that they use the app as a news source.
In a survey conducted in 24 countries, findings highlight that the UK has the second-lowest level of trust in the press with only 13% of people in the UK trusting the press. This shift comes at a time when young people are using social media to navigate the complexities of their daily lives, with smaller, niche content and lighter offerings satiating the desire to avoid negative 24-hour news cycles.
