THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND ANXIETY ON SELF-REWARD AMONG GENERATION Z

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the influence of social media and anxiety on self-reward among Generation Z. The rapid development of digital technology has made social media an inseparable part of daily life, particularly for Generation Z. On the other hand, excessive social media use is often associated with increased anxiety due to social pressure and social comparison in digital environments. These conditions are believed to influence self-reward behavior as a form of self-appreciation and personal gratification. This research employed a quantitative approach using a survey method. Data were collected from 103 Generation Z respondents through a questionnaire distributed using a Likert scale. Data analysis was conducted using reliability testing and multiple linear regression analysis. The results indicate that social media has a positive and significant effect on self-reward. Meanwhile, anxiety does not have a significant effect on self-reward. Simultaneously, social media and anxiety contribute to self-reward behavior with a coefficient of determination of 16.7%. These findings suggest that social media plays a more substantial role in shaping self-reward behavior among Generation Z compared to anxiety. The study contributes to a better understanding of how digital interactions influence the behavioral patterns of young generations in the modern era.