Shifting Trust: How Generation Z Canadians Determine Trust and Credibility in Online News and Information

Amidst a declining global trust in news media, this research focuses on the unique media consumption habits and skepticism of this digitally native cohort in Canada. Utilizing semi-structured, qualitative, smart device, content elicitation interviews, the study provides insight into the thought processes, decision-making strategies, and judgements young people make when they come across news. This study reveals key factors influencing trust: first-hand accounts, proof and evidence, and journalistic rigor – and key factors influencing credibility: expertise, accountability, positionality, and transparency. Findings indicate that while Generation Z exhibits general skepticism towards mainstream and social media, they demonstrate a strong sense of civic responsibility to cross-check and verify information themselves. The analysis explains the impact of digital immersion on news consumption, highlights a shift from passive consumption to active interrogation of news, and paints a clearer picture of Canada’s declining trust dilemma. This research suggests strategies for mainstream, independent, and citizen journalism to foster trust, ensure credibility, and engage effectively with younger audiences.

Author dc:creator

• Nanji-Kassam, Iman

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Hodson, Jaigris

• School of communication and culture

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/ir-19772

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28158