Young Americans embrace intuition—some even call it 'psychic'

A new survey has revealed that many younger Americans believe they possess strong intuitive or even 'psychic' abilities in their daily lives. The study, conducted by Talker Research with 2,000 participants, found that between 30 and 33 percent of younger adults regularly experience moments they describe as strongly intuitive. The survey showed that, on average, respondents reported having around 18 such moments each year. For Gen Z participants, these experiences occurred roughly twice a month. Many described these as simple instincts—like sensing when something feels wrong, detecting dishonesty, or knowing the right moment to leave a situation.

About 25 percent of those surveyed said they had a bad feeling before an event unfolded, while a similar number claimed they simply 'knew' an outcome in advance. However, 35 percent admitted they struggled to tell the difference between genuine gut feelings and anxiety. The rise in interest around intuition is tied to broader trends, including the growing popularity of astrology, tarot, and manifestation on platforms like TikTok. Yet, despite this fascination, many participants felt that constant technology use—such as AI and online activity—had weakened their trust in personal instincts. Adam Dickinson, a former FBI intelligence analyst, suggested that intuition often stems from the brain recognising patterns based on past experiences. Meanwhile, around 71 percent of Americans said they rely on intuition at least occasionally, with only 11 percent dismissing it entirely. Some respondents also credited therapy and mental health support with helping them better understand their emotions and reactions.

The findings highlight how intuition plays a role in many people’s lives, particularly among younger generations. While some see it as a useful guide, others remain unsure about distinguishing between instinct and anxiety. The influence of social media and technology continues to shape how people perceive and trust their own intuitive experiences.