A recent Gallup-Walton Family Foundation survey revealed that many young Americans, specifically Generation Z, have a lack of trust in several institutions in the United States. Roughly half of those surveyed expressed very little trust in Congress, the presidency, and the Supreme Court. Additionally, over a third of Gen Z adults also reported having very little trust in large technology companies, the news, the criminal justice system, and the police. However, only 7% stated that they had very little trust in science as a whole.
These findings are consistent with a Harvard Institute of Politics survey released earlier this year, which also highlighted a decline in trust among young adults in various institutions. While the lack of trust in the political system is not unique to young Americans, they are significantly more likely than the general US public to have little confidence in the police, the military, and large technology companies. This sentiment is reflective of broader public opinion, with similar shares of adults of all ages expressing doubts about the three branches of government.
Despite their overall skepticism towards many institutions, young members of Generation Z maintain faith in their teachers. The Gallup-Walton Family Foundation survey found that a majority of current middle school, high school, and college students have high levels of trust in their teachers and other adults at their school. This suggests that while trust may be waning in certain areas, there is still a strong sense of trust and reliance on educational figures among young Americans.
The poll surveyed 4,157 12- to 27-year-olds in the US between April 26 and May 9, using a nationally representative online panel. The results have a margin of error of +/- 2.1 percentage points. These findings shed light on the attitudes and perceptions of Generation Z towards key institutions in American society. It is essential for leaders and policymakers to take note of these sentiments and work towards addressing the underlying issues that have led to a lack of trust among young Americans.
The survey results highlight the need for more transparency, accountability, and engagement from institutions to rebuild trust among young Americans. By addressing the concerns and addressing the underlying issues that have contributed to the lack of trust, it is possible to bridge the gap and foster a more positive relationship between young Americans and key institutions in society. This will be crucial in ensuring the continued stability and effectiveness of these institutions in the eyes of the next generation of leaders and citizens.
