10/23/2025
Asked whether they watch traditional media more than older generations think they do, 57% of teens surveyed in the Center for Scholars & Storytellers at UCLA’s annual study said they agreed with the statement, while only 14.5% disagreed. And 53% of participants reported that they discuss TV shows and movies more than content on social media. Teens once again said the most wanted to see relatable stories, and like last year’s findings, want less romance – 59.7% of this year’s respondents “want to see more content where the central relationships are friendships.” “Teens are telling us loud and clear – they’re ‘over’ forced and unrealistic romantic storylines,” said Alisha Hines, CSS vice president of research and programs. “Our findings show that what they really want is content, characters and friendships that feel real and reflect everyday experiences they can authentically relate to.”
