JAKARTA - In the era of visual and expression-packed social media, a unique phenomenon emerged from the younger generation, namely the empty gaze of Gen Z. Not a sweet smile or cheerful pose that was highlighted, but a flat face, without emotion, and eyes that looked straight at the camera. His gaze was so cold, as if without feelings.
According to Tara Well, Ph.D., professor of psychology at Barnard College, Columbia University, this phenomenon is not just a style or a temporary trend, but reflects the shift in the way Gen Z expresses itself in the digital world.
Here are 7 reasons why this blank gaze is a new symbol in the visual culture of Gen Z generation according to Tara Well, Ph.D, quoted from the Psychology Today page on Saturday, August 16.
1. Forms of Emotional Protection
Many Gen Zs feel that the digital world is a space full of judgment. Neutral expressions are used as a form of self-protection from shame, criticism, or over-expression. As explained in the study, flat expressions can help a person regulate emotions and reduce the social impact of feelings of vulnerability.
"Neutral expression can be a psychological defense mechanism to maintain emotional distance in the digital public sphere," said Tara.
2. Resistance to Falseness in Social Media
Empty eyes can also be seen as a form of rebellion against a culture that seems always happy when uploaded on Instagram. Gen Z tends to reject image that is too perfect. They prefer to look modest, even though it looks boring or not attractive.
"Gen Z shows preference for an honest image compared to perfect and inspiring," said Tara.
3. Symbol of Digital Cultural saturation
Since childhood, Gen Z has been bombarded with relentless visual content, ranging from memes, short videos, to digital advertisements. This blank look can reflect emotional exhaustion or a common attitude towards a sensation cyberspace.
4. Criticism of Beauty Standards
In the midst of the dominance of a beautiful face in the style of influencers, empty gazes carry a message that one doesn't need to look perfect to look attractive. This is part of a new aesthetic that is more natural and intentionally awkward.
"This style is a form of resistance to beauty norms formed by social media," said Tara.
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5. Sign Social Status
For fellow Gen Z, an empty gaze can be a language in itself. This is a sign that they understand the culture of the internet, irony, and dark humor that develops in the digital community.
6. Strategies to Avoid Impressions to seek attention
Fear of looking exaggerated or trying too hard to be one of Gen Z's typical anxiety. With a flat face, they keep their distance from the impression of seeking attention and being relaxed even though they are actually aware that they are being observed.
"Emotions suppressed on social media are used to show control and involvement," Tara said.
7. Changes in How to Show Yourself Digitally
This empty gaze can be said to be a form of evolution in the way a person displays himself on the internet. If in the past the main goal was to entertain or attract attention, now more people want to look real, even though that means not showing any emotions at all.
"This is not just a facial expression, but a cultural signal that marks a shift in value and a way of communicating visually." said Tara.
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