Gen Z religious engagement shifts amid social media and AI influence

Sociologists and commentators are observing complex shifts in religious engagement among younger generations, particularly Gen Z, driven by social media and technological changes.

In the United Kingdom, research by the Bible Society and YouGov indicates that church attendance among 18-24-year-olds has increased fourfold over six years. Similar trends have been noted in France and the United States. In the US, Gallup data shows that the percentage of Americans aged 18-29 who consider faith “very important” rose from 28% to 42%, with a notable gender gap as young men lean more toward conservative principles.

Conversely, in Poland, Gen Z is considered among the fastest-secularizing groups globally, though digital trends suggest some are seeking spiritual meaning online. Experts warn that the immediacy of artificial intelligence may hinder deep spiritual inquiry, as the technology provides instant answers that could discourage the patient, questioning process essential to maturing faith.