Young Americans Shift Stance on AI: 55% of Respondents More Concerned Than Excited

According to the latest findings released by the Pew Research Center, young Americans are becoming increasingly cautious about artificial intelligence (AI), fearing that the technology could take away their jobs.

The report, published by Pew on Wednesday (the 19th), is based on a survey conducted from June 22 to 28. It shows that 52% of respondents said they feel 'more concerned than excited' about the growing use of AI in daily life—the highest level since the survey began.

Pew's annual survey started in 2021, when 37% of respondents said they were 'more concerned than excited,' 18% said they were 'more excited than concerned,' and the remaining 45% said they felt 'both concerned and excited.'

The latest data shows that the share of those who are 'more excited than concerned' has dropped to just 9%. A more striking shift is that, for the first time, a majority (55%) of the youngest age group (18 to 29) now say they are 'more concerned than excited.'

While this trend aligns with most other age groups, the change in attitude among the youngest cohort is particularly pronounced. This group was once the most optimistic about AI's potential, but they have now become one of the most skeptical.

Pew notes that job loss has long been a primary concern among Americans regarding AI, and an increasing number believe AI-related job losses are imminent.

Survey results show that 71% of adult respondents believe AI will reduce job opportunities in the U.S. within the next two decades—up from 64% in 2024. Only 5% believe AI will create more jobs.

Notably, among respondents aged 18 to 29, 73% believe AI will reduce job opportunities, up from 61% two years ago. Among those aged 30 to 49, 74% believe job opportunities will decrease, compared to 66% two years prior.

These results further highlight the complex relationship between young Americans and AI. They are among the most adept users of the technology, yet AI threatens entry-level jobs that traditionally help young people enter the labor market.

Meanwhile, those already established in the workforce are less negative about AI, suggesting the technology may benefit those with more work experience.

Currently, it remains difficult to quantify exactly how much AI is affecting the U.S. hiring market. However, some signs indicate that hiring activity for entry-level positions has already slowed.