Palu- Mental toughness plays a decisive role in how Generation X and Generation Z communicate in everyday life, according to a 2026 study conducted by Sumarni Zainuddin and colleagues from the Department of Communication Science, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Tadulako, Palu, Indonesia. Published in the East Asian Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, the study reveals that generational communication gaps in Donggala Regency are closely linked to differences in psychological resilience, ethical norms, and exposure to digital technology.
The research highlights that Generation X demonstrates stronger mental toughness, reflected in communication styles that emphasize politeness, emotional control, and respect for social hierarchy. In contrast, Generation Z shows more relaxed and informal communication patterns, especially among peers and on social media platforms. These findings are significant as intergenerational communication challenges are increasingly visible in families, schools, workplaces, and digital spaces across Indonesia.
Communication Gaps in a Digital Society
Donggala Regency represents a social environment where traditional cultural values coexist with rapid technological change. Respectful speech, non-verbal etiquette, and deference to elders remain important social norms. However, the rise of digital communication has transformed how younger generations express themselves.
Generation X, born between 1965 and 1980, grew up before the dominance of smartphones and social media. Their communication habits were shaped by face-to-face interaction, gradual life processes, and strong cultural expectations regarding manners. These experiences contributed to a form of mental toughness that prioritizes patience, self-control, and ethical consideration in speech.
Generation Z, born after 1997, experienced a radically different upbringing. Digital technology, instant messaging, and social media became part of daily life from an early age. While this generation excels in speed, adaptability, and technological literacy, their communication style often clashes with older norms, particularly in interactions with parents, teachers, and lecturers.
Research Approach in Simple Terms
The research applied a qualitative approach to understand communication behavior in real social contexts. Informants were selected using purposive sampling and consisted of three adults aged 45–50 years representing Generation X and three young adults aged 19–23 years representing Generation Z, all residing in Donggala Regency.
Data were collected through in-depth interviews and direct observation. The researchers then analyzed the information by organizing, comparing, and interpreting recurring communication patterns. This approach allowed the team to capture not only what people say, but how and why they communicate in certain ways.
Ethical Language as a Marker of Mental Toughness
One of the study’s key findings is that Generation X consistently associates communication ethics with mental strength. Members of this generation tend to:
- Use polite expressions such as “tabe” (excuse me) when speaking
- Avoid contradicting elders openly, even when they disagree
- Refrain from using harsh or offensive words in daily conversation
- Maintain respectful non-verbal behaviors, such as bowing slightly when passing older people
Generation X respondents also strongly reject the use of slang terms or insults commonly found in digital conversations. They view such language as disrespectful and as a sign of weak emotional control.
Generation Z and Informal Digital Communication
Generation Z respondents, on the other hand, perceive certain slang expressions and harsh words as normal, particularly when used among close friends. These expressions are often framed as jokes or symbols of social belonging. The study notes that such language is frequently used in online chats and social media posts that are publicly visible.
However, the research also found that many Generation Z participants recognize that these expressions carry negative meanings and are inappropriate in formal or intergenerational communication. The challenge lies in habit formation and the influence of peer culture in digital spaces.
In academic contexts, Generation Z is more likely to communicate directly and briefly with lecturers, sometimes without greetings or formal introductions. This behavior is often interpreted by Generation X educators as a lack of respect, even when no offense is intended.
Mental Toughness in the Age of Social Media
According to the authors, mental toughness influences how individuals manage emotional pressure, social conflict, and ethical boundaries in communication. Generation X benefits from life experiences that required endurance and delayed gratification, strengthening their resilience.
Generation Z faces different pressures, including constant exposure to unfiltered digital content and social validation mechanisms. While technologically skilled, this environment can weaken emotional resilience if not balanced with ethical awareness and guidance.
As noted by Sumarni Zainuddin of Universitas Tadulako, mental toughness is reflected not only in how individuals face life challenges, but also in “how they choose words, respect others, and regulate emotions during communication.”
Implications for Education and Social Policy
The findings offer valuable insights for educators, families, and policymakers. In educational institutions, clearer guidance on digital communication ethics can help bridge misunderstandings between students and lecturers. Intergenerational dialogue programs may also foster mutual understanding and respect.
For society at large, the study underscores the importance of balancing technological competence with emotional resilience and ethical communication. Mental toughness should be nurtured alongside digital skills, especially among younger generations navigating complex online environments.
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