Gen Z surprisingly wish TikTok was never invented: Survey

A survey reveals that 47% of Gen Z adults regret social media use, supporting stricter safety measures for youth.

A recent survey of 1,006 Gen Z adults (ages 18-27) has revealed significant regret over social media use, with many calling for stronger regulations to protect young users.

The study, conducted by researchers Jonathan Haidt and Will Johnson, found that 47% of respondents wish TikTok had never been invented, and 50% expressed the same sentiment toward X (formerly Twitter). Other platforms, including Instagram (34%) and Facebook (37%), also saw high levels of regret.

While 52% of respondents said social media has benefited their lives, 29% reported that it had harmed them personally. The survey also highlighted a gender gap: 44% of women said social media negatively impacted their emotional health, compared to 31% of men.

Social media's effects on broader society were also a key concern, with 60% of participants saying platforms have a negative impact on society as a whole.

The risks associated with heavy social media use—such as sleep deprivation, body image issues, depression, and exposure to harmful content—were cited as significant reasons for these negative views.

Despite acknowledging personal benefits, many in Gen Z appear ready for change.

Forty-five percent of respondents said they would not allow their own children to have smartphones before high school and 69% supported legislation requiring social media companies to offer child-safe options, including disabling addictive features and providing non-personalized algorithmic feeds for minors.

The findings coincide with growing pressure on lawmakers to regulate social media platforms.

The House of Representatives is currently considering the Kids Online Safety Act, which seeks to address many of these concerns by enforcing stricter safety measures for users under 18. This bill would require platforms to default to the safest settings for minors and restrict algorithms designed to increase engagement through addictive content.

The survey results highlight a rising demand for greater oversight of social media, with Gen Z increasingly concerned about the long-term effects these platforms may have on mental health, safety, and overall well-being.