# Generation Z social media usage and impacts

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/generation-z-social-media-usage-and-impacts
> Updated: 2026-08-12T08:36:54.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Research regarding Generation Z highlights various impacts of social media use and digital consumption habits. In the United States, studies have linked extensive social media use—defined as six or more hours per day—to increased mental health risks, including higher rates of anxiety and suicidal thoughts among youth. Additionally, surveys of parents indicate a trend of parental estrangement, with some respondents reporting that their adult children have ended contact.

Broadening the scope to news consumption, studies across the United States, Spain, and Portugal show that social media has become the primary information source for Generation Z, surpassing traditional websites and television. However, this reliance exists alongside significant distrust; approximately 80% of young people report encountering disinformation on these platforms, yet only about 13% claim to consistently verify the information they consume.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-12: Generation Z relies on social media for news despite low trust

Generation Z relies heavily on social media for news, yet reports show high levels of distrust in these platforms and significant exposure to disinformation compared to traditional media.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/generation-z-relies-on-social-media-for-news-despite-low-trust

### 2026-07-29: US research shows Gen Z youths severing parental ties and higher suicide risk from heavy social media use

U.S. studies reveal many Gen Z adults cutting ties with parents and that heavy social‑media use doubles anxiety and triples suicidal thoughts, especially among girls.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/us-research-shows-gen-z-youths-severing-parental-ties-and-higher-suicide-risk-from-heavy-social-medi

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Cite as: Generation Z social media usage and impacts. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/generation-z-social-media-usage-and-impacts