Intergenerational Identity Communication Through Social Media Use in Magelang
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65344/comers.v3i1.220Keywords:
Communication Theory of Identity, Generations, Identity Communication, Social Media, Mixed MethodsAbstract
The purpose of this study is to examine cross-generational identity communication in the use of social media. It will do so by employing the Communication Theory of Identity (CTI) framework, which consists of four layers: the personal layer, the enactment layer, the relational layer, and the communal layer. This study uses a mixed-methods approach with a descriptive design. Quantitative data were collected through a survey of 150 participants, comprising Generation Z (45 respondents), Generation Y (40 respondents), and Generation X (35 respondents). Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with eight informants representing each generational group. The research results indicate that the communal layer tends to dominate cross-generational identity communication with an average score of 3.12, followed by the relational layer with an average score of 2.95. A total of 85.3% of respondents fall into the high identity communication category. The communal layer, which emphasizes engagement in digital communities, influences identity communication more significantly among Generation Z and Generation Y, while the personal layer is more prominent among Generation X. Conversely, the relational layer, which emphasizes interpersonal relationships, is more dominant among baby boomers. The results indicate that identity formation on social media is more influenced by social interaction, community engagement, and interpersonal relationships in the digital space across generations than by individual factors alone.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Eko Agung Sugiyarto, Maryami Maryami (Author)
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This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 license.
