The Impact of Domestic Violence Stories on Social Media on Gen Z Marriage Preferences

Abstract

The decline in marriage rates in Indonesia, particularly in the city of Makassar, is an interesting phenomenon to study, especially among Generation Z who are active on social media. One factor that may influence this decline is the widespread exposure to domestic violence on social media platforms. This study aims to analyse the influence of exposure to stories of domestic violence on social media on Generation Z's interest in marriage in Makassar City. Using a descriptive quantitative approach, data were collected through a questionnaire distributed to 400 respondents who are active on social media, measuring the frequency, duration, and intensity of exposure to DV and its influence on interest in marriage. Statistical analyses used included Pearson's correlation test and simple linear regression to identify the relationship between the independent variable (exposure to DV) and the dependent variable (interest in marriage). The findings show that the frequency, duration, and intensity of exposure to domestic violence content on social media have a significant impact on Generation Z's perceptions and interest in marriage. The Pearson correlation test revealed a significant negative relationship between exposure to DV and interest in marriage (r = -0.346, p = 0.000), which was reinforced by the results of simple linear regression showing that each one-unit increase in the level of exposure to DV would decrease interest in marriage by 0.363. These findings provide important insights into the influence of social media as an agent of social change in shaping views on the institution of marriage. The implications of these findings are important for educational and intervention efforts aimed at reducing the negative impact of DV on the younger generation.