ABSTRACT
This research investigates how Generation Z perceives romantic relationship standards
on TikTok, focusing on how curated content influences their expectations and
emotional responses. TikTok introduces idealised romantic representations that shape
how young people interpret love and relationships. This study applies Richard
Gregory’s Constructivist Theory of Perception to examine how prior experiences,
incomplete information, and digital cues influence users’ perception of relationship
reality. A qualitative phenomenological method was used, involving seven informants
aged 18–24 from Jakarta and Bandung. Data were collected through in-depth
interviews and analysed using Braun and Clarke thematic analysis to identify patterns
in how romantic content on TikTok shapes and reinforces romantic ideals. The
findings show that informants often internalised unrealistic standards, resulting in
insecurity, disappointment, and relational pressure. However, some developed
awareness of the curated nature of such portrayals. Further studies may explore
emotional well-being impacts, screen time, gender differences, and cultural contexts
using quantitative methods to deepen understanding.
Keywords: Generation Z, TikTok, Romantic Relationship, Expectations