Growing Skepticism Among Gen Z Towards Artificial Intelligence

A recent survey conducted by Gallup, in collaboration with the Walton Family Foundation and GSV Ventures, reveals a significant shift in Generation Z's attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI). While over half of Gen Zers, defined as individuals aged 14 to 29, continue to use generative AI tools weekly, their enthusiasm has notably declined. The survey, conducted from February 24 to March 4, 2026, indicates that excitement about AI has dropped from 36% to 22%, and hopefulness has decreased from 27% to 18%. Conversely, the percentage of respondents feeling angry about AI has risen from 22% to 31%.

GallupUnited Press International (UPI)Walton Family Foundation‘Digital Doritos’: Gen Z continues to use AI but fears its effects on thinking and learningDigital TrendsGen Z is more resentful of AI as adoption stagnatesThe VergeHigherEd Dive

The survey highlights that while 51% of Gen Zers report using AI regularly, their emotional responses are increasingly negative. Anxiety remains steady at around 42%, and skepticism about AI's benefits is growing. Notably, 80% of respondents believe that reliance on AI tools may hinder their learning capabilities in the future. Concerns about AI's impact on creativity and critical thinking are also prevalent, with 38% and 42% of respondents, respectively, believing that AI will do more harm than good in these areas.

Gen Z stuck in ‘AI paradox’Digital TrendsGallup‘Digital Doritos’: Gen Z continues to use AI but fears its effects on thinking and learningWIBC - Indy's Mobile NewsGen Z is more resentful of AI as adoption stagnatesWalton Family Foundation

Among employed Gen Zers, skepticism is particularly pronounced. Nearly half (48%) believe the risks associated with AI in the workplace outweigh its benefits, a significant increase from 37% the previous year. Trust in AI-assisted work is low, with 69% of respondents preferring entirely human-generated work. This distrust is compounded by fears that AI could replace entry-level jobs, a concern that resonates strongly with younger workers who are already facing a challenging job market.

Gizmodo

Despite their skepticism, many Gen Zers recognize the necessity of AI skills for future educational and career opportunities. Approximately 52% of K-12 students believe they will need to know how to use AI in higher education, and 48% expect to use it in their future careers. However, the growing sentiment of distrust towards AI's role in education raises questions about how effectively these tools can be integrated into learning environments.

GallupGen Z is more resentful of AI as adoption stagnatesWalton Family FoundationUsNews and World ReportWIBC - Indy's Mobile News‘Digital Doritos’: Gen Z continues to use AI but fears its effects on thinking and learningGen Z stuck in ‘AI paradox’United Press International (UPI)

Critics argue that the increasing reliance on AI could undermine essential cognitive skills among students. The perception that AI may facilitate academic dishonesty is also rising, with 41% of students believing that their peers misuse AI for schoolwork. This atmosphere of distrust reflects broader societal concerns about AI's implications for learning and creativity.

Gallup

Stephanie Marken, a senior partner at Gallup, emphasized the need for a more thoughtful integration of AI tools in educational and workplace settings. "Gen Z isn’t rejecting AI outright, but they are reassessing its role in their lives," she stated, highlighting the importance of demonstrating how AI can enhance rather than replace human talents.

The Verge

As Gen Z continues to navigate the complexities of AI in their daily lives, the implications for both education and the workforce are profound. The ongoing dialogue about AI's role in society will likely shape future policies and practices, necessitating a concerted effort from educators and employers to address the concerns of this generation.

UsNews and World Report

• “Gen Z isn’t rejecting AI outright, but they are reassessing its role in their lives.” — Stephanie Marken, Senior Partner at Gallup

HigherEd Dive

• “However, this recognition of speed comes with a steep perceived cost: Eight in 10 Gen Zers (80%) believe that relying on AI to complete tasks faster will likely make learning more difficult in the future.” — Gallup Report

Gen Z is more resentful of AI as adoption stagnates

• “The Workplace Risk Gap Nearly half of Gen Z workers (48%) now believe the risks of AI in the workforce outweigh its benefits, a significant 11-point increase over the prior year.” — Gallup Report

Walton Family Foundation

• “Their growing skepticism signals a need for more thoughtful integration of these tools in both school settings and the workplace.” — Stephanie Marken, Senior Partner at Gallup

HigherEd Dive

This evolving relationship between Gen Z and AI underscores the necessity for ongoing research and dialogue to ensure that technological advancements align with the values and needs of the next generation.

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