While a steady 51% of Gen Zers in the U.S. report using generative artificial intelligence at least weekly, negative emotions toward it have intensified over the past year. Anger about the technology has risen, while excitement and hopefulness have dropped.
Gen Z’s AI Adoption
Gen Z’s use of generative AI in everyday life has been largely stable since March 2025. About half (51%) of 14- to 29-year-olds continue to say they use AI either daily (22%) or weekly (29%).
Gen Z's AI adoption remains steady, but negative sentiment has increased. What does this mean for the future of education? #AIinEducation #GenZ
Negative Sentiment About AI
Over the past year, Gen Z’s sentiment toward AI has become significantly more negative on three of the four emotions first measured in 2025. Gen Zers’ strong agreement or agreement that they feel excited about AI has dropped 14 percentage points to 22%.
Gen Z’s use of AI is mostly steady, but enthusiasm for it has declined while skepticism has climbed.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Implications
Gen Z’s use of AI is mostly steady, but enthusiasm for it has declined while skepticism has climbed. Gen Zers are more widely questioning AI’s effects on their cognitive skills, particularly in areas tied to thinking, learning, and creativity.
Key takeaways
- Gen Z's AI Adoption: Steady at 51%
- Negative Sentiment: Increased over the past year
- Implications: Gen Z questions AI's effects on cognitive skills
Looking Ahead
As AI continues to evolve, it’s essential for educators and parents to understand the concerns and needs of Gen Z. By addressing these concerns and providing guidance on responsible AI use, we can help Gen Z navigate the benefits and risks of AI in education.
It’s essential for educators and parents to understand the concerns and needs of Gen Z and provide guidance on responsible AI use.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
As we move forward, it’s crucial to address Gen Z’s concerns about AI and provide guidance on responsible use. By doing so, we can help them navigate the benefits and risks of AI in education and ensure they’re equipped with the skills needed to succeed in an AI-driven world. Learn more about how Learning Success can help.
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