International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: The rapid evolution of digital media has transformed the way people interact, communicate, and consume information. Generation Z (Gen Z), born between 1997 and 2012, has grown up in a world where digital technologies are ubiquitous, and online interactions are an integral part of daily life. However, the increasing reliance on digital media has also raised concerns about trust in mediated interactions. On one hand, digital platforms have enabled unprecedented levels of connectivity and access to information. On the other hand, the proliferation of misinformation, disinformation, and fake news has eroded trust in online sources and institutions. This paradox of trust is particularly pertinent for Gen Z, who are digital natives and have never known a world without the Internet.
Objective: This study explored the paradox of trust in mediated interactions from the perspective of Gen Z, using an interpretative journalism framework.
Method: Anchored in Social Penetration Theory, the study employed a cross-sectional, descriptive quantitative approach. A rigorously validated Likert-scale questionnaire, tested for reliability using Cronbach’s alpha (0.877), was distributed via Google Forms to300 undergraduate students from nine Nigerian universities—University of Benin, University of Abuja, Veritas University, Ahmadu Bello University, Catholic Institute of West Africa, Obafemi Awolowo University, Usman Dan Fodio University, University of Nigeria Nsukka, and Benson Idahosa University. Participants were selected using expert judgment sampling, and data were analyzed through descriptive statistics.
Result: Findings indicated that Generation Z harbored significant concerns about mediated communication, with issues of trust and privacy being central to their digital interactions. Although encryption was recognized as a protective measure, skepticism regarding digital security persisted.
Conclusion: The study concluded that while Generation Z actively engaged in digital spaces, their trust in mediated communication remained fragile due to privacy vulnerabilities. Media literacy emerged asan essential tool for fostering responsible digital engagement, and urgent action was needed to enhance security frameworks that encouraged safe self-disclosure.
Unique Contribution: This study provided new insights into the intersection of digital exposure, trust, and self-disclosure, offering a critical perspective on the evolving landscape of mediated communication.
Key Recommendation: Robust privacy literacy campaigns should be spearheaded by journalists, educators, and NGOs to enhance digital awareness. Additionally, digital platform developers and policymakers must implement stronger security measures to ensure safer online interactions, reinforcing privacy as the cornerstone of digital integrity.