PENDAKIAN GUNUNG SEBAGAI SARANA VALIDASI DIRI GEN Z (Studi Fenomenologi FOMO pada Pendaki di Malang Raya)

The phenomenon of mountain climbing has shifted from a mere physical activity to a part of a lifestyle closely linked to self-mage on social media. This study aims to understand the meaning of mountain climbing for Generation Z in Greater Malang within the framework of the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) phenomenon and the need for self-validation. A qualitative approach with a phenomenological type was employed. Subjects were selected using purposive sampling with the criteria of Generation Z (18-27 years old), having actively climbed at least twice in the past year, and being active social media users (Instagram/TikTok). Data collection involved in-depth interviews, field observations at Puncak Budug Asu and Mount Bokong, and digital footprint documentation. The data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, with validity tested through source triangulation and member checks.

The results indicate that the meaning of climbing for Generation Z. is highly varied, ranging from a pure interest in nature to existential drives. Two typologies of FOMO underlying the climbs were identified: FOMO resulting from peer group conformity (peer pressure) and FOMO resulting from exposure to social media visual trends. From Alfred Schutz's phenomenological perspective, these findings reflect the dynamics of the climbers' lifeworld, where their actions are driven by the "because-of motive" (background of hobbies, peer invitations, and digital trend exposure) and the "in-order-to motive" (the goals of achieving social validation, inner peace/healing, and self-actualization). Social media facilitates this intersubjectivity, playing a dual role as a stage for external recognition for FOMO-driven climbers and a medium for reflecting authenticity for interest-driven climbers. This study concludes that mountain climbing has become an existential adaptation mechanism for Gen Z amidst the onslaught of digital interaction.