Gaya Komunikasi, Self-Image, dan Self-Esteem dalam Social-Adjustment pada Laki-Laki Metroseksual di Kota Medan

Abstract

The metrosexual phenomenon of urban men reflects masculine identity dynamics which continuously develop in facing the change in social and cultural values. The objective of this research is to analyze the correlation of communicative style, self-image, and self-esteem in the social adjustment of metrosexual men in Medan. The research uses a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method and a constructivism paradigm. The data are collected by conducting in-depth interviews, participative observation, and documentation of informants aged 18- 50 years old, validated through the triangulation method and source. The result of the research suggests that metrosexual men use various communicative styles such as dominant, transparent, friendly, dramatic, impressive, controversial, and perfectionistic as an adaptive strategy in responding conservative social norm. One of the important findings is the use of dominant styles, indicated by resoluteness, narrative control, and self-confidence in developing a self-image and in confirming social position, especially in facing traditional masculinity stereotypes. This communicative style not only navigates stigma but also creates a space of self-affirmation in social interaction. Self-image is formed through physical care, a healthy life style, and a consistent self-image which strengthens self-confidence and personal identification. Meanwhile, self-esteem, either in the personal aspect or in the social one, plays an important role in the success of social interaction and environmental support. Metrosexual identity is indicated as a dynamic construction, established through the process of symbolic interactionism (mind, self, society) in which metrosexual men become the agents of social change which challenges masculinity stereotype through social media and public education. This finding enriches the understanding of how metrosexual men negotiate their identities in local urban culture and confirms the importance of self-image and self-esteem communication in supporting social-adjustment reflectively and flexibly.