LISTEN: Almost all of the more than 3,000 students polled recently by the National Society of High School Scholars say misinformation in news media is a major problem, contributing to increasing rates of anxiety and depression. GPB’s Ellen Eldridge has more.
The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) surveyed 3,272 U.S. high school students and recent graduates in July in every corner of the nation.
Almost all of them, 99%, said misinformation in news media is troubling, said James Lewis, NSHSS president and co-founder.
High levels of anxiety can impact work and personal relationships, he said.
The survey found that 93% of the high school students surveyed feel they have to fact check their news and wish they could talk about current events with others.
They want a way to find solid facts.
"How do I find a trusted source that I can share my high level of anxiety with, but also be able to talk to, be listened to, and get different ideas and validity about what's happening in the world around them," Lewis said, summing up the students' responses.
Additional survey findings show 63% understand how to manage their personal finances, and almost half of survey respondents said they expect to live at home for one or more years after college.
