RELIGION

How Chinese Teens Mix Faith and Tech

ChinaMon Oct 20 2025

Young people are using apps like Weibo and TikTok to explore spirituality in new ways.

Digital Media Influences Religious Behavior

The study examines how digital media impacts religious practices. It expands on the Theory of Planned Behavior, introducing new factors such as:

  • Media content innovation
  • Empathic willingness

These elements shape religious intentions and actions among young people.

The Role of Weibo and TikTok

These platforms provide:

  • Visual and interactive content tools
  • Easy sharing and discussion of religious ideas

This makes faith more accessible and engaging for the younger generation.

A New Way of Experiencing Religion

Digital media is reshaping religious practices by:

  • Making young people more open to exploring faith online
  • Enabling connections with like-minded individuals
  • Creating a new, tech-driven way of experiencing religion

Some argue that digital religion can be superficial, lacking depth. Others see it as a gateway to deeper faith. The long-term impact of digital media on religion remains to be seen.

questions

    Will digital religion lead to Generation Z asking their AI assistants for spiritual guidance instead of human priests?
    What are the ethical implications of using digital platforms to influence religious intentions and behaviors among young people?
    Are the algorithms of these digital platforms subtly influencing users towards specific religious beliefs for unknown purposes?

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