Recent findings from Barna Research reveal a significant trend among young adult women of Generation Z, showing a growing disconnection from traditional religious affiliations. With 38% of Gen Z women identifying as atheist, agnostic, or having no faith, this demographic is becoming increasingly religiously unaffiliated.
The study, conducted during the summer of 2023, surveyed 2,000 individuals aged 13 to 24. It highlights that this percentage of religiously unaffiliated women exceeds the 32% of their male counterparts in the same age group. For more detailed insights, the full findings can be accessed in the report published last week, with a margin of error of 2.1 percentage points.
Despite a general openness among Gen Z to explore spirituality, young women are particularly withdrawing from religious practices such as church attendance, prayer, and Bible reading. Data shows that only 58% of women aged 18 to 24 reported praying in the past week, significantly lower than their younger counterparts and teenage boys. Furthermore, only 31% read the Bible, and just 30% attended church recently, marking the lowest engagement levels among surveyed groups.
This spiritual detachment coincides with a perceived lack of support from older generations. Only 23% of young adult women feel supported by their fathers, while 36% feel supported by their mothers. Additionally, only 32% believe their parents understand them, and a mere 33% feel valued by older adults. A considerable 40% agree that “older people don’t seem to understand the pressure my generation is under.”
Barna’s vice president of research, Daniel Copeland, emphasized the importance of relationships in addressing these trends, stating, “Faith is a skill that must be modeled first, and strong, supportive relationships can bridge the gap between doubt and belief.”
Notably, since the COVID-19 pandemic, men have begun to surpass women in spiritual activities such as church attendance. Barna’s ongoing State of the Church initiative reported earlier this month that 43% of men attend church weekly compared to 36% of women. This shift marks a significant change from historical trends where women led in religious participation.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
