Evolution of News Consumption on Social Media: Gender Differences among Spanish Youth (2022-2023)

Abstract

Social media has become the main source of access to informational content for young people. So much so that, for the vast majority, it constitutes their only connection to current events. Therefore, it is essential to analyze the news consumption habits of this demographic. This research examines possible differences and the evolution in news consumption among Spanish youth aged 14 to 24, with particular attention to gender differences. A representative sample of 2,932 young people was selected for the study in two consecutive years: December 2022 and 2023. The results suggest that both genders exhibit very similar use of social media, with no significant changes over time. However, boys appear to show greater interest in informational content, particularly on platforms such as Twitch, Telegram, and YouTube. Most notably, on networks like Instagram and TikTok, where women used to play a predominant role, men have gained ground from one year to the next, even surpassing them in some instances.