Study found that young adults have grown less hopeful and more angry about AI
nytimes.com
April 9, 2026
4 min read
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Summary
A Gallup study reveals that over half of Gen Z in the United States regularly uses generative artificial intelligence. Despite this high usage, their feelings towards the technology have become increasingly negative, with rising sentiments of anger and decreased hopefulness.
Key Takeaways
- Over half of Gen Z in the U.S. uses generative artificial intelligence regularly, but their feelings about the technology have become increasingly negative.
- The percentage of Gen Z respondents feeling hopeful about A.I. dropped from 27% to 18% in the past year, with nearly a third reporting feelings of anger towards it.
- Close to half of young adults surveyed believe the risks of artificial intelligence outweigh its potential benefits in the workplace, marking an 11-point increase from the previous year.
- Young adults express concerns about A.I. affecting their creativity, critical thinking skills, and the potential threat to entry-level jobs.
Community Sentiment
Positives
- Many young adults express hope for AI's potential to improve efficiency in education and the workplace, indicating a recognition of its benefits despite concerns.
- The availability of jobs in the AI sector suggests that there are opportunities for young adults, which can foster a more optimistic outlook on the technology.
Concerns
- There is a growing sentiment that AI is contributing to the drying up of entry-level jobs, leading to fears of a lost generation among young adults.
- Concerns are raised that reliance on AI may impair creativity and critical thinking skills, suggesting a potential negative impact on educational development.
- The perception that AI is being marketed as a solution while simultaneously causing job insecurity creates a sense of distrust and frustration among young people.
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