Newhouse School’s Real Chemistry Emerging Insights Lab Releases 2023-2024 Fluency Report

The Newhouse School’s Real Chemistry Emerging Insights Lab (EIL) is excited to announce the release of its signature study, “The 2023-2024 Fluency Report: Mental Health.” The EIL specializes in analytics, artificial intelligence and digital media for various communication purposes. 

“Our goal with this year’s Fluency Report was to deepen our understanding of how mis/disinformation impacts mental health trends across generations,” said Jason Davis, a research professor and co-director of the Real Chemistry Emerging Insights Lab. “By examining the unique challenges and factors influencing each age group, the report provides valuable insights that can guide more effective communication strategies tailored to the needs of diverse generational audiences.”  

During the 2023-2024 academic year three separate studies were conducted through the lab, exploring various intersections of mental health, media and generational impact. Each study focused on unique aspects of these relationships, offering detailed analyses and valuable insights into their respective areas of research. 

The team, which included student researchers led by Davis and fellow researchers and faculty members Hua Jiang and Regina Luttrell, studied the effects of mental health on different U.S. generational groups in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the intersection of U.S. politics.  

“Working with students is crucial to the success of our initiatives,” said Luttrell, senior associate dean and co-director of the lab. “Engaging students in projects like the Fluency Report not only enriches their educational experience but also ensures our work is grounded in diverse viewpoints and forward-thinking solutions. Their fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and dedication bring invaluable energy and creativity to our research.” 

That research focuses on three generational cohorts, Baby Boomers (1946 – 1964), Generation X (1965-1980) and Generation Z (1997-2012), to explore the impact of mental health post-pandemic and in the context of the U.S. 2020 election year, as well as the upcoming U.S. presidential election in fall 2024.