Six Challenges in Culture to Watch for in 2026

Each new year presents fresh challenges that people face. It can feel overwhelming as we witness people struggle and be negatively affected in this broken world.

And at the same time, we can be part of seeing real change. By seeking to understand what those we care about are experiencing, and seeking to come alongside them, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus to people.

Here are six challenges in culture to be aware of in 2026.

Confusion about Reality

In 2025, we have seen a dramatic rise in all things related to AI. While it has its benefits, it is causing confusion – especially among young people – around the answer to the question, “what is real?” This is perhaps the quintessential question for Generation Alpha as they emerge into cultures where what they see online and accept as real may not be images, voices, or video that actually correspond to reality, but instead are all manufactured by AI. This not only relates to realms of convenience (AI assistants), and entertainment (AI-generated content), but into actual relationships with the rise of AI companions.

It is far too early for anyone to know for certain the far reaching consequences of this unprecedented spread of AI into nearly all categories of daily life. However, we do know it shows no signs of slowing and we continue to see growing concerns over its seemingly unchecked acceleration in culture.

The Splinternet

The internet, and especially social media, now functions as the splinternet. The splinternet is the fragmentation of the internet into smaller communities of thought and interest.

Due to advanced algorithms, censorship, and other factors, individuals regularly consume and see news and content that is unique to them. This influences their worldview and opinions as they consume a constant drip of custom information. This is why two individuals can hear news of the same event and yet have very different narratives of what happened, making it hard to understand one another, find common ground, and appreciate each other’s views.

Syncretistic Spirituality

92% of Americans have a syncretistic spiritual worldview, meaning they collect spiritual ideas from a variety of avenues to form their beliefs and behaviors. In the West, we live in a post-Christian society where the majority of individuals hold to post-modern thoughts of relative truth, desiring to find a spirituality that works for them rather than necessarily seeking what is true.

Many aren’t concerned whether or not Christianity is true, but whether or not it is good and beautiful. As Christians, we must understand the times in which we live, and what people believe, in order to share Jesus with them.

Loneliness

It’s been said that we are more connected than ever before and yet are lonelier than ever before. How can this be? Well, loneliness is not caused by a lack of friends, it’s caused by a lack of meaningful connection.

Loneliness is an epidemic in our world. Today, 45% of young people report being moderately or extremely lonely.  Almost 40% of young people say they have no one to talk to and feel left out, and 45% feel as if no one understands them. The stats are haunting. 

Related: The Biggest Challenge for Christianity in 2025

Mental Health

The mental health crisis continues to accelerate. For example, 47% of young people report being moderately or extremely depressed and 55% of young people report being moderately or extremely anxious. Across the board, almost one in three adults report symptoms of anxiety and depression. And tragically, nearly one in five senior pastors contemplated self-harm or suicide within the past year.

This is significant. People are suffering mentally like never before. As Christians, we have the opportunity to show up, care, come alongside people, and help them get connected to the help they need.

Porn Use

The number of Christians and non-Christians consuming porn continues to rise. A recent study found that over half of practicing Christians regularly view porn. At Sightline, we continue to come across statistics and stories, witnessing the damage porn consumption does to people’s mental health, relationships, and view of sex. 

Real freedom can be found, but it starts with admitting help is needed and seeking help from God and qualified individuals and programs such as our friends at Pure Desire. It is also important to keep in mind that the root of this problem is not pleasure seeking, but rather a core issue at the heart of our identity. If, as Christians, we neglect to regularly meditate and reflect the truth of who made us, why we were made and where true satisfaction is found, these trends will only continue to accelerate. 

As Christians, we have a mandate but also an incredible opportunity to come alongside Christians and non-Christians alike who are experiencing brokenness in this world. We have the opportunity to love like Jesus and share the hope that we have in Him. We have the opportunity to walk with people and truly show care for them. 

Think about the people in your life. Who is one person that is dealing with one of the five challenges mentioned above? Once identified, I’d encourage you to take the following steps. First, pray for them regularly. Second, learn more about what they are facing. For example, if it is anxiety, check out the resources available at resolutionmovement.org. Third, ask them questions to seek to understand them. Show genuine care for them in your responses. Be like Jesus to them and where appropriate, share how Jesus has brought hope and purpose to your life.

For more resources on the issues of loneliness, mental health, and porn use, check out our initiative Resolution Movement at resolutionmovement.org. To go deeper on understanding syncretism and different spiritual worldviews, check out this YouTube Playlist from Matthew Tingblad. 

 

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