A Phenomenological Analysis of FOMO, Impulsive Buying, and Personal Financial Management among Generation Z in Surabaya

Abstract

Purpose: This study explores how Generation Z in Surabaya experiences fear of missing out (FOMO) and impulsive buying and how these experiences shape personal financial management. Research Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological design was used. Informants were purposively selected from Generation Z residents of Surabaya who actively use social media and had experienced impulsive purchasing influenced by digital trends. Data were generated through in-depth interviews, passive observation of digital-lifestyle activities, and available expense or transaction documentation. Analysis followed phenomenological procedures including bracketing, horizonalization, thematic clustering, and identification of textural and structural essences. Results: Three interconnected themes emerged: digital and urban social pressure, impulsive buying as emotional coping and social validation, and digitally mediated perceptions of purchasing power. The accounts linked these experiences with reactive financial practices, weaker long-term financial prioritization, and greater acceptance of consumer debt. Research limitations/Implications: The context-specific qualitative design limits statistical generalization. Future research should examine broader populations and compare different urban settings. The findings support financial-literacy interventions that address emotional spending, social comparison, and responsible digital-credit use. Originality: The study integrates FOMO, impulsive buying, digital finance, and personal financial management through a phenomenological account of urban Generation Z experiences.