PAPARAN MEDIA SOSIAL TERHADAP KEBINGUNGAN IDENTITAS PADA REMAJA: PERBANDINGAN SOSIAL SEBAGAI MODERASI

Adolescence is a critical stage in identity formation, and the increasingly intense use of social media raises concerns about the potential for identity confusion. This study aims to examine whether social comparison moderates the effect of social media exposure on identity confusion in adolescents. The study used a non-experimental quantitative approach involving 386 adolescents aged 15–19 years selected through a simple random sampling technique. The instruments used included the Social Media Exposure Scale, the Identity Confusion Scale (EPSI), and the Upward–Downward Appearance Comparison Scale. Data analysis was performed using Hayes' Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA) Model 1. The results showed that social media exposure had no significant effect on identity confusion (p > 0.05), and social comparison did not act as a moderator in the relationship (p > 0.05). These findings indicate that the level of social media exposure does not influence adolescent identity confusion. Identity formation is influenced by various internal and contextual factors, such as the quality of social media use, family support, self-concept, mental health, and coping strategies. This confirms that adolescent identity dynamics are multifaceted and cannot be explained solely by the intensity of social media use.