The Influence of Family Communication on the Character Formation of Generation Z Children in The Digital Era (Analytical Study in Palembang City, South Sumatra)

This study aims to analyze the influence of family communication on the formation of the character of Generation Z children in the digital era, with a focus on the study in Palembang City, South Sumatra. In the family, communication has an important role in building harmonious relationships and forming basic values that are the foundation of children’s character. Generation Z, who grew up amidst the advancement of digital technology, faces unique challenges in family interactions due to the dominance of gadgets and social media use. This study uses a descriptive quantitative approach with data collected through a questionnaire to 55 adolescent respondents of Generation Z in Palembang. Data analysis was carried out using multiple regression to identify a significant relationship between family communication and the formation of children’s character. The results of the study show that effective family communication patterns contribute positively to the formation of children’s character, especially in the development of moral values, empathy, and social skills. However, distraction from the use of gadgets is the main challenge in maintaining the quality of family communication. This study recommends communication strategies that involve limiting the use of technology during family time and increasing face-to-face communication to support the character formation of Generation Z children in the digital era.