West LA Times

A recent study conducted by the Center for Scholars & Storytellers at UCLA has revealed that safety is the primary concern for Generation Z, according to a survey of 1,644 individuals aged 10 to 24 across the United States. The study found that other significant goals for this demographic include kindness, self-acceptance, and having fun.

The emphasis on safety may be influenced by various crises such as school shootings, financial instability, and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yalda Uhls, an adjunct professor of psychology at UCLA and founder and CEO of CSS, commented on these findings: “It’s no wonder young people...were swayed by messaging that played directly to their deepest anxieties.”

In addition to safety, being kind was ranked as the second most important goal among 14 listed options. This suggests that Gen Z values empathy and compassion despite common stereotypes about their generation's focus on social media fame.

Other priorities identified in the survey include having fun and self-acceptance. These findings align with recent studies indicating that young people prioritize mental and physical health. Online trends like #FitTok and #BratSummer reflect this interest in well-being.

The survey also highlighted differences based on age, race, ethnicity, and gender. For instance, young people of color prioritized safety more than white and Latino youth who valued kindness higher. Boys tended to prioritize fun over safety compared to girls who focused more on feeling safe.

Alisha Hines, CSS director of research, noted: “Gen Z seems to be demonstrating through these findings the desire to love and accept themselves...reflecting a balanced and thoughtful approach to life.”

The study aims to bridge gaps between psychological research and media creation to support youth development. Uhls emphasized: “These findings underscore the value of research-driven insights...Teens today have complex, meaningful aspirations that go beyond social media myths.”

This survey is part of the 2024 Teens and Screens Report which provides an annual overview of adolescence in relation to media consumption patterns.