Gen Z, the generation born between 1997 and 2012, is redefining how information is consumed, with significant reliance on digital platforms over traditional media. A recent study conducted by Ocado and Holland & Barrett revealed startling trends: 91% of Gen Z individuals prefer to seek health advice on platforms like TikTok rather than consulting with medical professionals. The research indicates not only their comfort with online health consultations but also the rise of social media influencers as the new-age "online doctors." This shift could not only affect their health outcomes but also exacerbate misinformation related to health trends.
It appears the accessibility of smartphones and stable Wi-Fi connections has made it incredibly easy for young individuals to interact with these "online doctors." For many, the answer to health-related inquiries isn’t found within the walls of clinical settings, but rather through viral videos. Interestingly, 28% of adults from the study reported using AI platforms such as ChatGPT to discuss health issues, indicating a general move away from traditional medical consultations.
The study found alarming results, especially concerning young adults' willingness to try out various trending health trends shared on social media. For example, nearly one-third (32%) of participants expressed their eagerness to try new fads, even those which seemed questionable. Such trends include practices like coffee enemas and detox diets, where users share experiences without substantial scientific backing.
Notably, this mindset seems to extend beyond merely seeking out health information. It reflects a larger cultural trend where Gen Z is willing to trade their health for social approval or success, as evidenced by the increasing number of people resorting to extreme diets or detox methods. One key takeaway from the study is the entrenched belief among these adults about the power of social validation, garnering interest as they probe the latest trends available online.
But not all feedback on these health trends has been positive. Many participants of the study admitted to experiencing severe side effects; as much as one-fourth reported having faced "terrible side effects" from online health trends. The results range from mild inconveniences like insomnia to serious regrets about their health choices. It’s not surprising to learn half of those surveyed felt "spoiled for choice" due to conflicting information available on the internet, leading to confusion about which trends to trust.
Further reinforcing these findings, another comprehensive study focused on Gen Z's approach to news consumption highlighted similar behavioral patterns. Conducted by Google among 1,000 youth aged 16-25 years, the survey revealed 87% of participants no longer followed news through traditional media, such as TV or print newspapers. Instead, young people now turn to memes as their primary source of current events, considering them more relatable and easy to digest.
Memes, usually funny images or videos shared widely across social media platforms, provide Gen Z with simple narratives around complex news topics. According to Hai Anh, a second-year student residing in Hanoi, she seldom seeks out news through conventional outlets; memes prompt her to look up details on current affairs. "Memes are handy because they convey messages concisely," said Hai Anh. These memes frequently serve as signposts within the digital world, informing them about popular discussions or prevailing political sentiments.
While the convenience of memes facilitates rapid information dissemination, it may also signal issues of saturation and potential risks. Notably, Bảo Trâm, a 24-year-old freelancer, noted the increasing hurdles presented by traditional media, often failing to engage her generation effectively. The challenges lie not only with the information format but also with content access barriers imposed across social platforms, which amplify memes’ popularity.
Trâm views memes as low-risk avenues for engagement within political and social discourse, breaking down the intimidation often associated with discussing serious matters. She articulated, "Social media is the new public forum where everyone can express opinions, making memes more prominent due to their eye-catching and humorous nature." Sharing these humorous memes with family and friends has also proven to engage audiences of varying ages.
Despite their popularity, experts caution against leaning solely on memes for news consumption. Lê Ngọc Tiến, a technology and communication specialist at Ala Agency, emphasizes the potential pitfalls associated with memes, particularly when they may lead to the spread of misinformation or contain inflammatory content. He elaborated on the tendency for memes to perpetuate biased perspectives or become tools for manipulation, urging the public to verify the authenticity of the news conveyed through memes before forming opinions.
Tiến’s warning resonates especially well with young consumers who often may not differentiate between genuine reports and personal views presented as news through meme culture. "While memes do have unique value, they should not serve as the sole means of accessing news; responsible interaction is key," Tiến reiterated.
Therefore, as Gen Z continues to navigate this complex information environment, it’s evident they’re not merely passive consumers. Instead, they are active participants seeking validation and information through the lens of social media—be it for health advice on TikTok or news delivered via memes. While technology has significantly altered how information is disseminated, it amplifies the importance of discerning credible sources from potential pitfalls lurking within the digital space.