Pergeseran Motivasi Pencarian Pasangan pada Emerging Adulthood Pengguna Aplikasi Kencan Online LeoMatch Bot di Telegram

Abstract

The development of digital technology has transformed patterns of social interaction within society, including the practice of romantic relationships, which have become more flexible, fast-paced, and digitally mediated. This phenomenon is reinforced by the growing tendency toward low-commitment relationships among young adults, influenced by factors such as economic instability, fear of commitment, and the need for emotional closeness without formal attachment. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the shift in partner-seeking motivations among emerging adulthood users of online dating applications, particularly LeoMatch Bot on Telegram, which tends to lead toward situationships or non-committed relationships. This study analyzes the phenomenon through The Strength of Weak Ties theory proposed by Mark Granovetter. A qualitative approach with a netnographic method was employed to understand interaction patterns and the subjective experiences of online dating application users within digital spaces. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews, and documentation, while informants were selected using purposive sampling techniques. To ensure data validity, source triangulation was applied. Data analysis was conducted through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings are expected to show that interactions within online dating applications tend to form relationships based on weak ties, characterized by low intensity, limited emotional closeness, and short duration. This condition encourages a shift in motivation from seeking long-term relationships toward more casual, flexible, and low-commitment relationships, such as situationships. Thus, this study contributes to understanding the dynamics of interpersonal relationships in the digital era while also expanding the application of The Strength of Weak Ties theory within the context of online dating interactions.