Understanding Generation Z Polarization: Findings from a Preliminary Replication Study

Amid rising polarization and declining trust in democratic institutions, Generation Z (Gen Z) faces unique challenges in navigating civic discourse. This study presents comparative findings from two survey cohorts (2023, n = 56; 2025, n = 25) examining Gen Z students’ political identity, discourse habits, interpersonal trust, and civic attitudes. Framed by Social Identity Theory (SIT), Cultural Intelligence (CQ), and discourse theory, the study explores how ideological difference and identity signaling shape students’ willingness to engage across divides. Findings indicate continuity in partisan skepticism and discourse openness, but also growing fatigue, reduced trust, and ambivalence toward equity. While affective polarization is not overtly hostile, signs of social caution and epistemic retreat are evident. The results underscore the importance of fostering epistemic humility and adaptive dialogue frameworks in higher education to support democratic resilience. Implications for future research and intervention are discussed.