“Many young people are unfamiliar with the term ‘polarisation,’ but they are aware of the tensions behind it.”

Judith's research is ongoing; this article presents preliminary findings.

Polarisation: what does it mean for young people?

Judith gathers experiences, ideas, and solutions from young people using the YoungXperts method. In this approach, young people share their experiences with researchers, who provide scientific insights in return, and together they develop solutions.

“Many young people are unfamiliar with the word polarization,” says Judith. “But when the phenomenon is described, they immediately recognise the tensions. One policymaker we spoke to was surprised to learn that young people are unfamiliar with the term 'polarisation'. This shows we often use language that does not resonate with them, which leads to missed opportunities.”

A recent survey by Judith found that eight out of ten young people believe that opinions are increasingly divided. ‘Sociologists indicate that there is no increase in polarisation. But young people do experience it that way—and that says something about how they view the world.’

The role of social media

Social media plays a dual role in discussions about social issues. ‘Young people recognise more extreme opinions online,’ says Judith. However, they also view these platforms as opportunities to encounter different perspectives. This raises the question: how can we make social media a more positive space?’

Discussions in schools and community centres

The research takes place at multiple locations in the Randstad and beyond, supported by collaborations with vocational colleges like Albeda College and organisations such as Lieve Mark.

‘Brainstorming sessions with groups of six to twenty young people create a different dynamic than one-on-one conversations,’ says Judith. ‘These sessions are creative and sometimes chaotic, but young people feel heard and provide valuable insights.’

Open attitude and respect

Brainstorming sessions revealed that young people do not view differences of opinion as inherently problematic.

They say, “Differences of opinion are part of life.” However, they struggle with the lack of respect and willingness to listen. Adults could learn from this, as young people often approach others' opinions with openness and curiosity."

Nevertheless, young people sometimes struggle to put this into practice. ‘They know that it is important to share your opinion, for the functioning of democracy, for example. However, it also carries risks: someone may become angry or perceive you as unintelligent, and you could unintentionally hurt someone's feelings. Young people need role models who demonstrate how to handle differences respectfully. As one of them said: “Politicians need to fix their attitude.”’

From idea to impact: collaborating with designers and theatre makers

Within SYNC Lab and Healthy Start, Judith collaborates across disciplines with scientists, youth workers, designers, and theatre makers.

‘They help us to make social problems tangible,’ she says. ‘Theatre makers bring stories to life; social designers from TU Delft contribute ideas about tools and interventions that young people can use. Everyone brings something different to the table. My own strength lies in data analysis — together, we can achieve so much more.’

The motivation: a positive image of young people

Judith previously obtained her PhD for her research into young people and climate change. The common thread in her work is involving young people in societal challenges.

‘I want to conduct research from a positive perspective,’ she says. ‘Young people are often portrayed as lazy or uninterested. That's not true. They are affected by issues such as climate change and social inequality, and are motivated to contribute— if you address them in the right way.’

According to her, this motivation touches on various themes. ‘Whether young people are committed to climate or depolarisation, I believe that the underlying processes are similar. What drives one person to focus on social inequality and another on sustainability? I want to explore that further.’

Transformative research: young people as frontrunners

Judith and her colleagues, Eveline Crone, Suzanne van de Groep, Lysanne te Brinke and Ron Dahl organised a three-day meeting in Delft on behalf of Healthy Start. The aim was to position young people as frontrunners in social change.

‘We often see adolescents as vulnerable, but it is precisely because of all the developments they are going through that they have great potential to contribute to solutions for challenges in the areas of AI, climate and polarisation.’

During the meeting, participants including scientists, creative professionals, and youth workers took part in live podcasts. In each episode, two experts discussed a topic, and young people responded to the conversation.

The podcast series Gen Change is published weekly. ‘It encourages listeners to consider the power of young people.’

Cautious with expectations, generous with support

So, according to Judith, are young people bridge builders in a time of seemingly increasing divides?

‘I don't want to place too much pressure on them,’ she says. ‘They often hear, “You are the future,” as if they must solve all problems created by previous generations. Adults have an equal role to play. However, young people are curious and motivated to contribute, and I hope my research supports them in doing so.’

Next steps

The project is halfway through. In the coming period, Judith will collaborate with young people on a joint publication and further develop practical tools or interventions.

‘We have already gathered many ideas. The current challenge is determining what works and how to make it useful for schools and young people.’