Transformasi Sosial di Era Digital: Pengaruh Media Sosial terhadap Pola Interaksi dan Identitas Generasi Z

Abstract

urpose: This article examines how social media changes Generation Z’s patterns of interaction, identity formation, and social relationships, and identifies conditions under which its effects are empowering or harmful.

Design/Methodology: This conceptual literature review applies thematic analysis to symbolic interactionism, self-presentation, network society theory, and empirical studies of adolescents and young users. The analysis addresses social mechanisms rather than causal testing with primary survey data.

Findings: Five mechanisms emerge: expanding spaces for interaction, managing impressions before multiple audiences, feedback through popularity metrics, algorithmic curation, and negotiating identity between online and offline contexts. Outcomes depend on digital literacy, social support, platform design, and unequal access.

Practical Implications: Educators, families, communities, and platform operators should promote digital identity literacy, safe spaces for dialogue, privacy protection, and critical reflection on algorithmic recommendations.

Originality/Value: The article introduces the Interaction–Representation–Validation–Negotiation framework to examine Generation Z’s social transformation without treating social media as its sole cause.