Gen Z pulling back from social media, except TikTok, survey finds

"Over a third of Gen Z respondents in the March 2026 survey 'TikTok Troubles: The Platform Gen Z Can't Quit (But Doesn't Trust)' said they rarely post or engage on social media, opting instead to 'lurk,' meaning they just look at other posts without liking or responding to them. That 34% of respondents is the highest of any generation."

"According to the survey, 31 percent of respondents said they scroll on social media out of habit, not desire. Beyond that, Gen Z respondents reported feeling negatively about their daily social media usage, as 29% felt better about themselves when they were removed from social media, and 24% felt guilty about the time they spent scrolling."

"The survey found that 39% of Gen Z reported seeing more 'low-quality, AI-generated content flooding their feeds,' making the social media experience feel 'less human.' These factors are leading some members of Gen Z to cut back on social media."

A Harris Poll survey reveals Gen Z is pulling back from social media participation despite being the most internet-centric generation. Over one-third of Gen Z respondents rarely post or engage, instead choosing to 'lurk' by viewing content without interaction. Many scroll out of habit rather than desire, with 31% admitting habitual usage. Gen Z reports negative feelings about social media, with 29% feeling better when removed from platforms and 24% experiencing guilt over scrolling time. The quality of content has declined, with 39% reporting increased low-quality, AI-generated content that feels impersonal. Despite these concerns, Gen Z remains attached to TikTok and nostalgic for its earlier days. Over half of those reducing usage want to spend more time exercising.

Read at USA TODAY