Page 251 - ISC PROCEEDINGS 21.4

They invest considerable effort in editing and presentation to enhance aesthetic appeal
and attract interaction.
“…I usually edit photos and videos a little, because I want people to see my trip
from the most beautiful perspective…” (Gen Z 4)
“…I want my posts to attract more interaction, so I'll edit the photos to have better
colors, and with videos, I might edit and follow trends to make them more interesting… I
want it to be as beautiful as possible.” (Gen Alpha 1)
These differences are closely linked to perceptions of authenticity. Baby Boomers
and Generation X prioritize realistic representation, while Generation Y balances
authenticity with selective enhancement. In contrast, Generation Z and Generation Alpha
tend to present an idealized version of their experiences, focusing on visually appealing
moments and self-presentation.
“It’s definitely the version I want to project because I tend to show off what’s
beautiful so people can see who I am.” (Gen Z 4)
“I think it’s the version I want to project mainly to share and show off to my
friends.” (Gen Alpha 1)
4.2. Generational differences in post-trip emotional responses
The interview results also reveal differences in the impact of social media
interaction on the emotional state of different generations.
Baby Boomers and Generation X exhibit low emotional dependence, with social
media interaction playing a supplementary role and not significantly affecting their
satisfaction.
“If I get a lot of reactions, that’s nice. If not, it’s still fine. I don’t feel upset about it.”
(Baby Boomer 1)
“As long as I feel happy with what I shared, low interaction doesn’t really bother
me.” (Baby Boomer 3)
In contrast, younger generations (Generation Y, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha)
demonstrate higher emotional sensitivity to interaction. Greater engagement enhances
positive emotions, while limited interaction leads to disappointment.
“In general, getting little interaction doesn’t feel very good.” (Gen Y 3)
“When I receive a lot of positive reactions, I feel happier and more acknowledged.
But if there’s little or no interaction, I feel less happy than I expected.” (Gen Z 4)
“…If I don’t get the level of interaction I was hoping for, it’s quite disappointing.”
(Gen Alpha 1)
Differences are also evident in the duration of emotions. For older generations,
emotions are mainly tied to the actual trip and tend to fade quickly.
“…The feeling from a social media post only lasts one night.” (Gen X 2)
“…The joy is short-lived… you don’t pay much attention because you’re busy.” (Gen X 4)
Meanwhile, younger generations experience prolonged positive emotions through
continued interaction and repeated exposure to content.
“…The emotions from the trip may fade, but seeing the posts online brings back happy
memories.” (Gen Y 4)
“…The photos and interactions on social media can last for months afterward…”
(Gen Z 3)
“…each time it's viewed, it evokes emotions even though the actual trip only lasted
a short time.” (Gen Alpha 4)

250