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Abstract
Generation Z is the first generation to grow up fully immersed in digital technology, making social media an inseparable part of their daily lives. While social media offers spaces for communication, self-expression, and entertainment, it also plays a significant role as a form of digital escapism used to cope with psychological stress, academic pressure, and emotional exhaustion. This study aims to explore how Generation Z interprets social media as a means of digital escapism and to examine its implications for their mental health through subjective narratives. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected from 20 Generation Z participants aged 20–23 through open-ended questionnaires distributed via Google Forms. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and meanings in participants’ experiences. The findings reveal that social media functions ambivalently in the lives of Generation Z. On one hand, it provides temporary emotional relief, entertainment, motivation, and a space for identity expression. On the other hand, excessive and unregulated use contributes to negative outcomes such as sleep disturbances, emotional fatigue, anxiety, and social comparison. The study also highlights that the psychological impact of social media largely depends on individual emotional regulation, interpretation, and digital awareness. Overall, this research emphasizes the importance of balanced social media use and digital literacy to help Generation Z maximize the benefits of social media while minimizing its risks to mental health.
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