Panel: UNDERSTANDING GEN Z'S APPROACH TO RELIGION AND SPIRITUALITY



487.1 - UNDERSTANDING GENERATION Z'S RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL ROLE MODELS: AN ANALYSIS OF EXEMPLARIST NARRATIVES WRITTEN THROUGH STORY COMPLETION

AUTHORS:
David E. (Ling's College London ~ London ~ United Kingdom)
Text:
This study examines how Generation Z, the first generation raised with smartphones, conceives of religious and spiritual role models when encountered online. Using story completion and a demographic survey, it gathers narratives from a global set of 100 participants aged 18 to 27. Through reflexive thematic analysis and a literary-theological framework, the study identifies five distinct narrative-types that reveal a complex engagement with religion and spirituality—with young people critiquing institutional failings, navigating existential uncertainty, seeking personal empowerment, and rediscovering connections to faith. Findings suggest that while many Gen Zers remain skeptical of religious institutions, they are not irreligious in their search for authenticity and meaning. This study also highlights the importance of online platforms in shaping spiritual exploration. Implications for religious institutions include the need to align moral teachings with authentic practices, provide mentorship for young people, and adapt to diverse expressions of faith.