Millennials and Centennials on Streaming: Media Psychology Insights

What is this article about?

This article explains how millennials and centennials in Spain and Mexico perceive and respond to sensitive content in streaming platforms. Based on a study by Fernández-Rodríguez, Romero-Rodríguez, and Puebla-Martínez, the research applies three key media effects theories—spiral of silence, bandwagon effect, and third-person effect—to understand generational responses to controversial audiovisual narratives.

Why is it important?

This article explores the intersection of media psychology, streaming habits, and ideological perception in youth. It reveals how younger audiences either self-censor, conform, or project risk onto others when exposed to divisive content such as abortion, politics, or immigration.

Key Findings: Generational Attitudes and Streaming Habits

1. Spiral of Silence

Centennials are more likely to believe that production companies monitor public opinion to decide which topics to highlight or silence. Millennials show more indecision, indicating a cautious attitude.

• Stronger effect among right-leaning ideologies and viewers of Netflix and HBO.

• Disney+ and Filmin users are less inclined to perceive this manipulation.

2. Bandwagon Effect

Both generations believe production companies intentionally include controversial topics to boost viewership. However:

• Older centennials and younger millennials show higher agreement.

• Viewers driven by entertainment are more susceptible than those motivated by criticism or art.

3. Third-Person Effect

Both groups think others are more affected by controversial content than themselves. This perception is stronger in millennials, Mexicans, and women.

• Shows a disconnect between self-awareness and concern for societal influence.

• Correlates negatively with critical consumption and with platforms like Filmin.

FAQs

Q: What are the three media effects studied?
A: Spiral of silence, bandwagon effect, and third-person effect—all psychological models explaining how people perceive and respond to media influence.

Q: Which group is more confident in its media criticism?
A: Centennials, who express stronger opinions and feel less affected by the content.

Q: What motivates belief in these effects?
A: Ideological leaning, platform used, content motivation (entertainment vs. criticism), and gender all play roles.

Q: Does this study suggest content censorship?
A: No, but it highlights how perception of content bias and media influence varies by age, gender, and ideology.