One of the key takeaways from the annual poll in recent years has been the growing presence of Generation Z in embracing new identities – an indicator Jones says is likely to continue.
“I think the data (is) clear that LGBTQ identification is highest among the younger generations,” Jones told USA TODAY. “I don’t put much stock in year-to-year increases or decreases that are within the margin of error … but over a longer period of years you’ll see a more definite trend emerge.”
For Generation Z – those born from 1997 to 2004 – 19.7% identified as LGBTQ in the poll, which was based on aggregated data of 10,000 people.
Among Millennials – those born from 1981 to 1996 – 11.2% identified as LGBTQ.
By comparison, 3.3% of Generation X identified as LGBTQ in 2022; for baby boomers, 2.7%.