Komunikasi Interpersonal dan Hubungan Interpersonal Generasi Z Dalam Hubungan Tanpa Status (Studi Kasus Pada Generasi Z Yang Menjalin Hubungan Tanpa Status)

Communication makes it easier for us to understand the intentions and goals of someone who interacts with us. Everyone has unique communication characteristics, which are even more apparent between different generations. Something similar can be observed in today's younger generation, who were born amid advances in media and technology and are known as Generation Z. They tend to behave stiffly in the real world because they are highly dependent on the internet and technical devices to meet their daily needs, from social aspects to education and knowledge transfer. Generation Z's rigidity in socialization and direct communication often leads to failure in building interpersonal relationships, especially in romantic relationships. As a result, many of them choose a form of relationship known as a “situationship”
This study aims to reveal patterns of interpersonal communication and interpersonal relationships among Generation Z in the cities of Malang and Ternate, particularly in situationship. The approach used is a descriptive qualitative study with an interpretive paradigm. Research data were obtained through observation and in-depth interviews with six subjects.
The findings of this study indicate that interpersonal communication and relationships among Generation Z in situationship are characterized by intense digital interactions, where emotions are expressed vaguely and explicit discussions about relationship status are very rare. This situation creates freedom, but also uncertainty, which often leads to emotional conflicts such as fear, jealousy, and unfulfilled expectations. These conflicts usually arise from different assumptions, mismatched expectations, and inconsistent communication, which in turn exacerbate tensions and hinder the sustainability of the relationship. Overall, stateless relationships among Generation Z are a complex form of bonding with unique communication dynamics that promise freedom but also carry the risk of ambiguity and emotional conflict. Honest, transparent, and consistent communication plays a crucial role in building trust and overcoming uncertainty in this type of situationship. A deep understanding of the consequences of this relationship combined with effective communication is key to ensuring that situationship can be maintained in a healthy manner and negative effects can be minimized.