This is how the younger generation uses social media
The high consumption of social media has been a highly controversial topic for many years. But how many hours is actually too much? And why is it that younger people in particular are increasingly drawn to social platforms? After all, usage has increased significantly, especially among the followers of Generation Z.
A recently published study has dealt with exactly this issue. For them, 1,500 young Germans were asked about their use of social media. How Gen Z handles their own privacy on platforms like Facebook and Instagram has been revealed.
The most interesting findings:
- Recognition and fame matter more than one’s privacy.
- Success in social media is crucial for your own well-being.
- Innovations such as hidden likes that platforms have introduced for improved mental health are welcomed and actively used.
Social recognition instead of privacy
Probably one of the most important findings of the study is that Gen Z is concerned about privacy and data protection. Nevertheless, the young generation is ready for the rise in social media, their data to sell.
And not just a few share this willingness. Finally, 77% of the study participants indicated that they would give up their private data to companies for more fame. 47% of participants would even give it up for prioritized access to new features on social media platforms.
What data is Gen Z coming out with?
The study also asked the respondents this question. The result? Many of them would share even the most private information for the coveted celebrity.
Social media likes really are that important
The fact that 40% of the Germans surveyed have at least once deleted a post that has not received enough of it shows how much the focus is really on likes on social media such as Instagram and Co. A trend that is also continuing in other countries. After all, a whopping 47% of respondents in the US and still 32% in France gave the same answer.
It should come as no surprise, then, that many Gen Z members report that social media has had a powerful impact on their self-esteem and well-being.
Not least because of this, some companies have now decided to focus more on the mental health of users. Measures that have already been taken – such as hiding likes on Facebook – have so far been rated positively by users for the most part.
Also interesting: What is your technological age?
Wondering how you compare to younger generations when it comes to internet and technology? Then maybe this is it Technological Age Quiz from ExpressVPN interesting. Here you can test how young you are when it comes to technology.
Not all Gen Z members are so generous
Yes, there are actually Gen Z members who are less generous with their data. We have put together a few tips for you below, with which you can cavort a little more anonymously on social media.
Already knew? 82% of study participants have a private social media account.
4 tips for more security in social media
- If the geo-targeting of the apps is turned off, no more GPS data can be recorded.
- Not all posts need to be shared with everyone. If private data or events are to be posted, then it should be restricted who can read them.
- Login data in particular should be as safe as possible from hackers. This can best be achieved by enabling 2-factor authentication and a strong password.
- Not all permissions required by an app are really necessary (see geo-targeting). If a function is not desired, it can be easily deactivated in the smartphone settings.
Just implementing these few tips can make browsing social media a lot safer. Thanks to them, private data can no longer be collected and stored quite so easily.
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