National Survey on Teen Spirituality & Religion
A research project to discover how teens explore purpose, belonging, identity, and faith
What do teens think about faith and spirituality?
Let's understand teenagers better
Teenagers are some of our favorite people. They’re curious, passionate, and constantly exploring who they are, what they believe, and where they belong. That’s why we’re launching a new national study on teens and spirituality.
The Fuller Youth Institute is inviting teens ages 13–17 to take a 15 minute anonymous survey to help us understand how they explore identity, belonging, purpose, faith, and spirituality.
Please pass this survey on to the teens in your life. Every teen participant will receive a $15 gift card after parental consent is given. We want to hear from not only practicing Christians, but also young people with a variety of perpsectives. Thank you for helping us listen well!
Frequently Asked Questions
This study aims to amplify the voices of young people and provide insights for parents and caregivers, churches, youth organizations, and researchers seeking to understand how faith and identity shape their lives.
Who are the researchers?
The research is being conducted by the team at the Fuller Youth Institute, a group connected with Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, California. We undertake interdisciplinary research to better understand young people's perspectives and experiences so we can help adult leaders and parents who work with them. Our research follows nationally recognized ethics standards and laws and is supervised by an institutional research board.
Why are you conducting this research?
This survey is part of a national research project all about how young people explore identity, belonging, purpose, faith, and spirituality. We want to understand teens’ experiences, beliefs, and the questions they’re thinking about—not just what adults assume. We’ll share what we learn by writing reports and books, producing podcasts and videos, and training youth leaders, educators, and parents.
Will my name or personal information be shared?
No, your responses will remain anonymous and private. Only the research team working on this project will have access to your name and contact information, and your name will be separated from your survey responses.
Are there any really uncomfortable or personal questions?
This survey's questions shouldn’t make most feel uncomfortable. We ask a variety of questions about your experience (or not) with religion and spirituality, and how you go about answering questions of identity, belonging, and purpose. We are not asking particularly vulnerable questions, and you won’t be asked about drug or alcohol use, sexual behavior, or experiences of abuse or other trauma.
What will you do with my answers?
All responses will be compiled, and the group data will be analyzed to look for patterns and connections. This will help us see what teenagers today think, feel, and do about important topics.
Is this just a one-time survey?
Yes, you can just take this survey and be done! At the end, you’ll have the opportunity to let us know if you would be willing to participate in future research (such as a follow-up interview), but that is completely up to you.
How will I receive my gift card?
Once the survey closes on August 1st, we will begin reviewing all completed responses. Incentives for all valid surveys will be distributed by mid to late August.