Thrilled to be Featured on CNBC Discussing Gen Z’s Social Media Revolution
Gen Z is leading a quiet social media revolution, and I got to explain it on CNBC. Here’s the emerging Gen Z trend that leaders and brands should be watching.
What is the Gen Z social media revolution?
Some in Gen Z, and even younger Millennials, are starting to step back from social media. Maybe you’ve seen this yourself. Online nastiness and divisiveness, constant comparisons, and real concern for mental well-being are all driving the shift.
Ironically, where is Gen Z most talking about the trend? You guessed it: social media.
Why is Gen Z stepping back?
The common theme among Gen Zers taking intentional breaks is a desire for more control, balance, and well-being in their lives. Gen Z also knows that platforms view them as a product and are constantly trying to monetize them through ads and feeds built to hold attention and play on emotional responses. Gen Z is especially sensitive to that, because they’re the most advertised-to generation in history (until Gen Alpha gets older!).
One thing I’m watching closely is how governments around the world choose to handle social media and regulate minimum age requirements for its use.
Why this trend matters for leaders and brands
This isn’t a one-off. It’s a real shift in generational behavior with implications for leaders, brands, and stakeholders trying to connect with younger generations. It’s also something we’ve been tracking for years in our State of Gen Z annual study and in our Gen Z book, Zconomy.
Big thanks to CNBC for including my perspective in this important conversation. There’s more to come from our Gen Z research at CGK, and thanks for being on this journey with us.
Gen Z isn’t addicted to social media. They’re deciding, on their own terms, when it’s worth their attention.
Q: What is Gen Z’s social media revolution?
A: Some in Gen Z, and even younger Millennials, are starting to step back from social media. Online nastiness and divisiveness, constant comparisons, and concern for mental well-being are driving the shift, and the common theme is a desire for more control, balance, and well-being.
Q: Why is Gen Z stepping back from social media?
A: Beyond well-being, Gen Z knows platforms view them as a product and monetize their attention through ads and feeds built to hold attention and play on emotional responses. Gen Z is especially sensitive to this as the most advertised-to generation in history, until Gen Alpha gets older.
Q: Why does this trend matter for leaders and brands?
A: It’s an emerging trend with real implications for leaders, brands, and stakeholders trying to connect with younger generations. CGK has tracked it for years in its State of Gen Z annual study and in the book Zconomy.
Posted: March 13th, 2026
Categories: Generations | Inspiration | Keynote Speaking | Leadership | Trends | Workforce
Written by Jason Dorsey
Jason Dorsey is an acclaimed generations and behavioral researcher and speaker. He's received over 1,000 standing ovations for his unique keynote presentations. Jason has led over 200 research studies. Adweek calls him a "research guru." His mission is to deliver new insights and practical strategies that solve business challenges for leaders.
