Post-Breakup Adjustment in Indonesian Emerging Adults: A Phenomenological Study of Communication, Social Behavior, and Emotion Regulation
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Objective: This study explored how emerging adults adjust emotionally and socially after a romantic breakup, with an emphasis on post-breakup communication, social behavior, and emotion regulation in an Indonesian context.
Methods and Materials: A qualitative phenomenological design was employed. Participants were recruited purposively via social media and personal networks. The study included three emerging adults (19–25 years) with at least six months’ experience in a toxic relationship, complemented by three informants to enrich contextual understanding. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews (60–90 minutes), naturalistic observations, and relevant documents. Interviews were conducted in Bahasa Indonesia, transcribed verbatim, translated into English, and checked via back-translation. Data were analyzed inductively following phenomenological procedures (e.g., Colaizzi/Van Manen) with iterative coding and theme development. Credibility was supported through triangulation, reflexive memoing, peer discussion, and member checking.
Findings: Four interrelated themes characterized post-breakup adjustment: (1) Communication shifts toward limited or indirect contact (often via social media) and boundary-setting; (2) Social behavior changes, including reduced organizational participation and more cautious social engagement; (3) Emotional balance, marked by self-reflection, emotional maturity, and avoidance of repeating past relationship patterns; and (4) Self-adjustment, including letting go of pride, redefining the ex-partner relationship as neutral friendship (when adaptive), and rebuilding supportive networks.
Conclusion: Post-breakup adjustment involves a coordinated shift in communication practices, social participation, and emotion regulation. Social media functions as a double-edged context—maintaining low-intensity support while potentially sustaining ambiguity. Culturally sensitive counseling and psychoeducation that strengthen self-reflection, boundary skills, and supportive relationships may facilitate healthier recovery trajectories.
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