Persepsi Mahasiswa Fakultas Psikologi Universitas Sumatera Utara terhadap Akun Instagram @Pijarpsikologi

Abstract

This study is entitled "Perceptions of Psychology Students at the Universitas Sumatera Utara Towards the Instagram Account @Pijarpsikologi". The purpose of this research is to investigate the perceptions of psychology students at the Universitas Sumatera Utara towards the Instagram account @pijarpsikologi. The concept includes mass communication, new media, perception, social media, Instagram, and specifically Instagram @pijarpsikologi. The research methodology employed is descriptive with a qualitative approach. The primary informants in this study were four people, and the primary informants were students of the Faculty of Psychology at the Universitas Sumatera Utara who frequently accessed the Instagram account @pijarpsikology, and the triangulation informant in this study was a lecturer of psychology at Universitas Mercu Buana. Data collection methods utilized in this study include observation, interviews, and documentation. Data validity was ensured through triangulation techniques. The findings indicate that psychology students at the Universitas Sumatera Utara generally perceive the @pijarpsikologi Instagram account positively. They perceive the content as high-quality, beneficial, and a source of inspiration and motivation. However, concerns were raised regarding the potential for self-diagnosis due to potential misinterpretations, suggesting the need for content warnings. Students expressed a desire for deeper and more educational discussions, especially on complex psychological topics, to meet their academic needs. The perceptual process identified in the study includes stimulus or triggers, registration, and interpretation, influenced by factors such as size, intensity, frequency, contrast, movement, change, and novelty. The object of perception in this study is psychology students at the Universitas Sumatera Utara perceiving the @pijarpsikologi Instagram account as a relevant and beneficial source of mental health content. Interpersonal perception involves students recognizing that the managers of the @pijarpsikologi account interact with them through the online content presented. They consider this account a valuable reference but emphasize the importance of avoiding self- diagnosis and enhancing the depth of the material presented.