Meme Culture and Language Practices: Constructing Global Generation Z Identities Through Popular Digital Media
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70062/gllr.v1i3.232Keywords:
Digital Identity, Generation Z, Hybrid Language, Meme Culture, Social MediaAbstract
This study investigates the role of language practices in meme culture as a means of constructing global Generation Z identities through popular digital media. Memes have become a primary form of expression for Gen Z, serving as tools for humor, creativity, and identity negotiation. The research problem focuses on how language within memes contributes to global identity formation among this generation, while the objective is to explore the ways in which hybrid language, visual elements, and cultural references in memes shape digital identity. A qualitative approach employing Multimodal Discourse Analysis (MDA) was used to examine popular memes from Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X, and Reddit, considering both linguistic and visual features as well as socio-cultural meanings. The findings indicate that hybrid language in memes generates cross-cultural humor and facilitates identity construction, while visual elements and symbols reinforce shared cultural understanding. Memes function as a “cultural glue,” connecting individuals across digital spaces, yet they also present challenges such as identity homogenization and algorithmic bias. This study contributes theoretically to digital linguistics and cultural studies by highlighting the interplay between language, imagery, and identity, and practically to enhancing digital literacy and understanding of identity practices among Gen Z users. Overall, the research concludes that language in memes plays a pivotal role in shaping global Generation Z identities, strengthening cross-cultural solidarity, and redefining youth cultural identity within contemporary digital spaces.
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