A Quantitative research on news consumption behaviors of Generation Z in the context of cyber culture

Globalization and developments in communication technologies have introduced people to virtual worlds where cyber culture is shaped. Cyber culture has emerged as a lifestyle and way of thinking that determines people's interactions, values, and social norms in the digital environment. While the digital age creates new social dynamics by leading to radical changes in human relations and cultural interactions, Generation Z is in direct interaction with digital technologies and leads a life shaped by the internet, social media and smart devices. This research, which is designed on these dynamics, examines the effects of the concept of cyber culture while addressing the preferences and values of Generation Z. The aim of this research is to conduct a situation assessment of how Generation Z shapes their news consumption preferences in the cyber culture environment. In the study, Süleyman Demirel University students were selected as the universe, and the convenience sampling method was used and a total of 365 students were surveyed. The data were collected using a questionnaire form created by quantitative research method, and the questionnaire was prepared with a five-point Likert scale under eight headings for cyber culture and news consumption habits; In addition, 7 questions containing the demographic information of the participants were added. The collected data were analyzed using the SPSS-26 program. Research findings show that Generation Z has experienced a multifaceted transformation in their news consumption habits with the effect of cyber culture. Generation Z uses digital platforms intensively and turns to fast, visual and interactive content; It has also been determined that it attaches importance to individual participation and personalized experiences. These results provide valuable information for future journalism applications.