68% of US Teens Would Turn to Jesus for Identity Advice, but Parents Rank Higher

November 5, 2026

A new report by Barna in partnership with Christ In Youth shows more than two-thirds of American teenagers say they would feel comfortable seeking guidance from Jesus about their identity, although parents and friends remain their preferred sources of advice.

Christianity Daily reports that the findings appear in “Reimagining Ministry for Gen Alpha,” in which researchers surveyed 1,500 U.S. teenagers ages 13 to 18, examining whom they would feel comfortable approaching with questions about their identity.

According to the report, mothers emerged as the most trusted source of guidance, with 84% of teenagers expressing comfort in discussing identity-related questions with them.

Fathers followed at 78%, while friends ranked third at 75% and Jesus placed fourth at 68%, slightly ahead of adult mentors and teachers, both at 67%.

Religious sources also featured prominently in the responses with roughly 66% of teenagers saying they would feel comfortable consulting the Bible, while 56% named their pastor and 51% their youth pastor.

According to Christianity Daily, Barna researchers said the findings underscore the continuing influence of parents in shaping teenagers’ understanding of identity.

Researchers suggested that youth ministries could be more effective by equipping parents to provide spiritual guidance at home rather than attempting to replace their role.

The findings are consistent with earlier research indicating that family relationships play a central role in Americans’ moral decision-making.

Photo: top, Credit: Unsplash/Hannah Busing