American Teenagers’ Distrust in Media: A Deep Dive into Recent Findings

Introduction

A recent study reveals a stark reality: American teenagers exhibit a marked distrust toward media outlets. This escalating skepticism raises questions about the future of journalism. Conducted by the News Literacy Project between April and May 2025, the research offers a comprehensive look into the views of teens aged 13 to 18.

Key Findings

Overwhelming Negative Perception of News Media

• 84% of teens described news media with negative terms such as “fake,” “biased,” and “lies.”
• In comparison, only 9% expressed positive sentiments, using words like “interesting” or “good.”

This overwhelming negativity underscores the urgency for media organizations to reassess their strategies for engaging younger audiences.

Distrust in Journalistic Ethics

More than half of the surveyed teens believe that journalists often engage in unethical behavior. Key insights include:

• Common Ethically Questionable Practices:
  • Fabricating details or quotes.
  • Providing preferential treatment to advertisers.
  • Misrepresenting quotes, photos, and videos.

Interestingly, less than a third of participants think reporters take the necessary steps to verify facts before publication, a practice that is central to credible journalism.

Indifference Toward the Future of Journalism

A significant portion of teenagers displays apathy toward the state of journalism:

• 67% of respondents indicated they are uninterested in the decline of news organizations in the U.S. over the past two decades.

This indifference is a critical call to action for journalists and educators alike, as the future of the Fourth Estate appears uncertain.

Understanding the Roots of Distrust

Peter Adams, Senior VP of Research and Design for the News Literacy Project, suggests that this skepticism is partially justified but also is rooted in misconceptions.

Influences on Teen Perceptions

• Lack of Engagement with News: Many teens either do not follow the news regularly or have inadequate education about the function of journalism.
• Cultural Representations: When asked to name movies or shows related to journalism, teens often referenced the “Spider-Man” franchise and “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy,” neither of which portray journalism in a positive light. The classic film “All the President’s Men” was mentioned far less frequently.

This connection between popular media and teens’ perception of journalism adds another layer of complexity to the issue.

Misconceptions About Journalistic Integrity

The survey revealed alarming beliefs among teens regarding ethical journalism:

• Fabrication of Details:

  • 50% believe journalists "always" or "often" make up details to enhance stories.
  • An additional 36% think journalists do so sometimes, suggesting a pervasive belief in the dishonesty of the profession.
• Error Correction:
  • Only 23% of teens believe journalists correct their errors regularly, while 39% feel journalists do so rarely or never.

Broader Context: Declining Trust in Media

These findings align with a trend seen in the general population. A Gallup poll from October noted that only 28% of Americans expressed a significant level of trust in news media. This indicates a need for substantial reform in journalistic practices to regain public confidence.

Conclusion

American teenagers’ distrust in the media poses a formidable challenge for the future of journalism. As the landscape of news continues to evolve, understanding and addressing the concerns of younger generations will be crucial. Engaging with them through transparency, ethical reporting, and accurate storytelling could bridge the chasm of distrust and foster a more informed society.

This exploration serves as a wake-up call for media organizations, educators, and policymakers to re-evaluate their approaches, ensuring journalism aligns with the needs and values of a new generation.