The news consumption habits of Generation Z in Johannesburg

Abstract

Understanding Generation Z’s news consumption habits is pivotal in comprehending the evolving media landscape and its implications for news dissemination and engagement. This generation’s unique habits, preferences, and behaviours are reshaping the media industry, influencing public discourse, and impacting how news is produced and consumed. This study set out to explore the news consumption habits of South African Generation Z audiences, focusing on their preferred news formats and platforms, the influence of societal events, and their perceptions of news credibility and trustworthiness. Using a focus group, the research uncovered clear preferences for digital-first news, particularly via social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Respondents also cited News24 as a trusted and frequently accessed source. Findings show that Generation Z gravitates toward short-form, visual content and appreciates concise, engaging news formats. However, while social media is a dominant source, credibility remains critical. Participants expressed the need for verified sources and transparent reporting, with concerns about misinformation and bias often shaping their engagement with the news. Societal events such as the Israel-Palestine conflict, gender-based violence, and COVID-19 were shown to significantly impact how Generation Z engages with news, often leading to emotional fatigue or news avoidance. Overall, the study highlights the importance of accessible, trustworthy, and empathetic journalism in engaging younger audiences, offering valuable insights for news organisations seeking to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving media landscape.