Misinformation 101: Why Teens Need Media Literacy Now More Than Ever

Would you trust TikTok over Reuters for credible news? Many teens do — and the consequences of this trend are reshaping how an entire generation interacts with information.

Teens today encounter conspiracy theories almost daily, yet less than 40% receive any media literacy education - shocking. A new study reveals widespread inability to differentiate between biased content and credible news. From mislabeling advertisements as news to trusting brand names over investigative journalism, the gaps are glaring.

Even with some media literacy, exposure to misinformation increases, possibly due to sharper detection skills. Schools, however, remain largely unequipped, with only six US states offering guidelines for teaching media literacy and just three making it mandatory.

• 80% see conspiracy theories weekly; 20% daily
• Only 15% actively seek trustworthy news
• Media literacy boosts fact-checking confidence but remains rare

The stakes? Misguided algorithms and misinformation threaten an informed society. Education is long over due and schools must prioritize equipping teens with the tools to critically assess the flood of digital information

As digital media reshapes truth, how can we ensure the next generation is equipped to thrive in an era of disinformation? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Read the full article on Fast Company.

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