Persepsi Perempuan Generasi Z di Kota Medan Terhadap Isu “Pernikahan Itu Menakutkan” di Media Sosial

Abstract

This research aims to examine how the awareness and perception formation of Generation Z women regarding the issue of "marriage is scary" is packaged within social media content. The cyber world provides a space, such as social media, to accommodate the unrestrained acquisition of information among Generation Z. The narrative "marriage is scary" has spread widely, making this issue significant as digital trends can influence young women's perspectives on the institution of marriage. This study employs a qualitative method with a constructivist paradigm to understand the depth of subjective perceptions through the cultural values that are embraced and formed through the stages of attention, selection, and interpretation. Data for the research were obtained through in-depth interviews with five female informants and one male informant, who are active members of the "Girl Up Medan" community, selected using purposive sampling techniques. The validity of this research was tested through source triangulation. The results indicate that the informants perceptions are not formed instantaneously but rather through a process of attention, selection, and interpretation of the information they consume. The perception of the issue “marriage is scary” is not counter or reactive; all informants choose to focus on relevant information, select content based on personal values, and interpret its meaning according to their life contexts. This research provides new insights into the formation of diverse perceptions that follow personal values and the cultural context surrounding individuals. The findings can serve as a reference in the study of cultural communication, new media communication, and cyber psychology. It is also hoped that these findings can contribute as a reflection on social issues and provide practical knowledge in media literacy for the young generation.