Recently released results of a two-part Pew Research Center survey conducted early this year queried 4,654 adults about their favorite national and international news sources and viewing habits. The findings reflect a number of age-related trends. For instance:
- 20% said they often rely on print newspapers, adding up to just 5% of 18- to 29-year-olds vs. 48% of those 65 and older.
- 38% said they get their news online: 28% on news websites/apps and 18% from social media or both.
- 57% reported often getting TV-based news: 46% from local TV; 31% from cable; and 30% from networks or some combination of the three.
- Of those turning to TV, 85% were 65+; 72% were 50 to 54; 45% were 30 to 49; and just 27% were between 18 to 29.
- Among those going digital, 56% preferred their mobile devices vs. 42% their desktops.
- 70% of the 18- to 29-year-olds indicated they favor or only use a mobile device; 53% of those 30 to 49 do, along with 29% of those 50 to 64 and just 16% of those 65+.
- 63% of those surveyed said family and friends are important sources of news for them.
P.S. 75% said they believe news organizations are politically biased, yet, at the same time, asserted that they “keep political leaders in check.”
Click here for more information on this survey and its results.
It is interesting to see the changes in news sources. I’m not so sure biased news organizations keep political leaders in check. What do you think, Carol?
I think all objectivity is lost from the most “highly esteemed” types, such as the New York Times, to Hollywood and late nights with the likes of Bill Mahr. I am losing faith, as media of all types shape views and get folks believing and tolerating all sorts of political abuse. Just finished Kimberly Strassel’s The Intimidation Game–an unsettling eye opener and a must-read, at least if you ask me. And so it goes…