INJECT (Interdisciplinary Journal of Communication)

Parasocial Relationships as a Mediator of YouTube Vlog Credibility and Gen Z Travel Intentions

2025-07-10T06:34:07+00:00

This study examined the influence of message credibility in educational travel vlogs on Generation Z’s travel intention, with parasocial relationships as a mediating variable. Using a quantitative descriptive approach and SEM-PLS analysis, data were collected from 400 active viewers of the YouTube channel @leonardoedwin. The results showed that message credibility had a significant effect on travel intention (β = 0.783) and parasocial relationships (β = 0.186). Parasocial relationships also significantly influenced travel intention (β = 0.512) and partially mediated the effect of message credibility (β = 0.401). These findings supported the Two-Step Flow Communication Theory, where content creators act as opinion leaders who influence audience behavior through emotional connection. The study concluded that a combination of informational credibility and parasocial engagement played a crucial role in shaping persuasive communication, particularly in fostering travel intention among Gen Z audiences in the digital era.

Developing Learning Communication Media in Science Education: Improving Critical Thinking and Honesty in Seventh Grade

2025-07-17T15:28:53+00:00

Communication is the most important means of conveying goals; poor communication can lead to the failure of expected goals. This can also occur during the learning process at school. This study aims to enhance students' critical thinking skills and develop their honest character by utilising digital communication media. This research approach utilises R&D combined with the ADDIE model to produce a means of communication between teachers and students in the form of Google Sites learning media integrated with Canva. Experts then validated the resulting learning media to ensure strong results for use in learning. Experts also validated the critical thinking test instrument and the honest character observation sheet to ensure that strong, reliable instruments would be used. The sample of this study consisted of class VII D students of MTsN 2 Jember in the 2024/2025 academic year, who were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The data analysis technique employed N-Gain and was followed by an independent sample t-test, which was subsequently evaluated using Cohen's d test. The results showed that students' critical thinking skills increased to a high category (Cohen's d = -4.501). There was also an increase in students' character scores, which were in the high category (Cohen's d = -5.386). These results suggest that effective communication media can enhance students' critical thinking skills and character. Teacher communication with students using digital media can overcome students' learning difficulties, increase their interest and motivation to learn, and improve their critical thinking skills. Rules regarding assignments and how to monitor them in learning through the Google Sites application train students' character of honesty. Students also responded enthusiastically to the presence of this media. The fatigue they previously experienced in conventional learning was alleviated by delivering more engaging lessons with fresh themes and animations on the Canva display, integrated with Google Sites.

Symbolic Convergence and Fantasy Themes in Community-Based Ecotourism Communication: A Case Study of Pokdarwis Situ Gede

2025-07-10T05:01:04+00:00

Situ Gede is an ecotourism destination in Bogor City that combines the attractions of a lake ecosystem and a forest. Situ Gede ecotourism is a community-based ecotourism site managed by the Local Kelompok Sadar Wisata (Pokdarwis) Situ Gede. Communication interactions within Pokdarwis generate various fantasy themes, which then form symbolic convergence (Bormann, Cragan, & Shields, 2001). These fantasy themes flow through both offline and online communication via WhatsApp group. This research aims to understand how the fantasy themes formed within Pokdarwis Situ Gede relate to the principles of ecotourism development. This study is qualitative, employing several methods, including virtual ethnography, observation, and interviews. The findings reveal that the rhetorical vision of Pokdarwis Situ Gede can be divided into four pillars: environmental education, conservation, community empowerment, and livelihood enhancement.

Applying the Brand Identity Prism to the Development of a Sustainable Coffee Edutourism Destination in Sumbertangkil Village, Malang, Indonesia

2025-07-17T15:30:15+00:00

Sustainable tourism has become a global priority due to its significant economic impact. In Indonesia, coffee one of the country’s leading agricultural commodities holds considerable potential for development through locally based edutourism initiatives. This study aims to identify the brand identity dimensions of coffee-themed edutourism in Sumbertangkil Village, Malang, using Jean-Noël Kapferer’s Brand Identity Prism (BIP) framework. An exploratory qualitative methodology was applied, involving focus group discussions with Pokdarwis administrators and local community members in Sumbertangkil. The findings reveal that the brand identity of this coffee destination is shaped by the synergy among the dimensions of personality, relationship, and self-image, supported by attributes such as warmth, participatory engagement, and educational experiences. A key challenge identified is the lack of consistency in visual identity elements, such as logos and a cohesive branding system for the destination. This study highlights the importance of community involvement and the integration of sustainability values as essential foundations for differentiation and for strengthening the brand of this coffee edutourism destination.

Culturally Based Religious Moderation Communication in Bagansiapiapi for Interfaith Harmony

2025-07-16T14:52:37+00:00

This study explores religious moderation communication in fostering interreligious harmony in Bagansiapiapi, Rokan Hilir, Riau. It focuses on three aspects: (1) community understanding of religious moderation, (2) communication practices that support interfaith harmony, and (3) supporting and inhibiting factors in promoting religious coexistence. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through field observation, interviews, and documentation involving religious leaders, community figures, local authorities, organizations, and multireligious communities. Findings reveal that religious moderation in Bagansiapiapi is deeply embedded in the local culture, with core values such as national commitment, tolerance, anti-violence, and acceptance of cultural diversity shaping daily interactions. Communication of religious moderation is practiced through inclusive and symbolic interactions based on Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) and Symbolic Interactionism. Key enablers include inclusive cultural values, proactive community leadership, and empathy-driven communication. Challenges arise from the absence of permanent interfaith youth forums and limited institutional support. The novelty of this research lies in three contributions: (1) the formulation of a Cultural-Accommodative Communication Model, where symbolic convergence fosters organic interfaith engagement; (2) positioning religious moderation as a community-based collective identity rather than a top-down directive; and (3) demonstrating how religious and national symbols function as active instruments of moderation communication. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of sustainable religious harmony strategies in other multicultural settings.

Mapping Publication Trends of Influencer Marketing and Digital Political Campaigns: A Bibliometric Analysis

2025-07-10T05:03:35+00:00

This paper aims to identify trends and map research on the role of influencer marketing in digital political campaigns, which has been a focus among academics and practitioners. The method used in this study is qualitative research with a literature review approach. The study found that influencer marketing has increased significantly between 2019 and 2023, successfully building credibility and reaching a wider audience on social media platforms. However, challenges include the spread of false information and the polarization of public opinion. The study concludes that influencer marketing can encourage voter participation and improve political literacy, but ethics and transparency are crucial to maintaining public trust. This research provides strategic insights for maximizing inclusive, data-driven digital political campaigns.

Leveraging Psychological Storytelling and LinkedIn Content Strategy for Brand Awareness in the Training Industry: A Case Study of Relasi Diri

2025-07-11T09:43:45+00:00

This study aims to examine the digital content strategy on LinkedIn implemented by Relasi Diri, a personal growth and professional training company based in Indonesia. The objective is to understand how LinkedIn content contributes to building brand awareness and fostering audience engagement in the training industry. The research focuses on how storytelling, psychologically based messages, and personal branding strategies are applied to enhance the company’s positioning and credibility on a professional platform. The object of the research is the official LinkedIn page of Relasi Diri, particularly its content from January to May 2025. The study uses a qualitative case study method, collecting data through in-depth interviews with the founder, content analysis, and observation of audience interactions. Findings indicate that consistent value-based content, combined with a humanistic tone and expert narratives, effectively increases organic engagement, builds trust, and, when integrated with SEO, drives high-intent digital traffic. The use of psychological storytelling and thought leadership positions Relasi Diri not only as a service provider but also as an educational voice in the industry. In conclusion, LinkedIn can be a strategic platform for companies in the training and consulting sector to strengthen their digital presence and build long-term relationships with their audience.

The Cultural Adaptation And Paralinguistic In McDonald’s Arabia Advertising: A Semiotic Analysis Using Roland Barthes’ Framework

2025-07-11T09:42:40+00:00

This study analyzes the verbal and nonverbal structures in McDonald's Arabic advertisement “ماك أربيا من ماكدونالدز” using Roland Barthes' semiotic approach. Through a descriptive analytical method with a qualitative approach, the researcher identifies paralinguistic elements to reveal McDonald's cultural adaptation strategies in the Arab market. The results of the study indicate that McDonald's implements a localization strategy through the use of standard Arabic combined with local dialects, cultural symbols such as traditional clothing, and Arab societal values. At the denotative level, the verbal structure includes local culinary terms and Arabic slogans, while the nonverbal structure depicts a happy family togetherness in an Arab environmental setting. At the connotative level, the advertisement aligns global modernity with local traditionalism, creating the perception that foreign products can integrate with Arab cultural identity without threatening local values. These findings contribute to the understanding of cross-cultural communication in global advertising and demonstrate how semiotics can reveal cultural adaptation strategies in contemporary advertising media.

Conflict Prevention through Cultural Synergy Model (CPCSM): Collaborative Roles of Opinion Leaders in Sustaining Religious Harmony in Parepare and Tana Toraja

2025-07-20T13:39:47+00:00

This study aims to explore the collaborative role of opinion leaders, including religious leaders, traditional leaders, academics, government, and popular media, in maintaining diversity while preventing potential religious and culturally based social conflicts in Parepare and Tana Toraja. Through a communication ethnography approach and utilising in-depth interviews, participatory observation as well as thematic and narrative data analysis, this study reveals that local values such as Sipakatau, Sipakainge, Sipakalebbi, Rambu Solo’, Rambu Tuka', and Tongkonan are not only the foundation of harmony, but also produced and distributed through dialogue forums, educational policies, and digital campaigns in a synergistic and non-hierarchical manner. The main outcome of the research is the formulation of the Conflict Prevention through Cultural Synergy Model (CPCSM), which illustrates how religious moderation is built collectively through interactions between opinion leaders. This model underlines the importance of proactive and preventive strategies based on local wisdom and the utilisation of digital media to strengthen social resilience amid diversity. This finding is significant not only as a conceptual contribution to the study of religious communication but also as a practical reference for strengthening public policy and replicating diversity models in other multicultural areas.

Prophetic Strategy Against Hoaxes and Hypocrisy: The Case of Abdullah bin Ubay— Lessons for Modern Leadership and Ethical Communication

2025-07-22T16:58:13+00:00

The leadership of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Medina faced significant internal challenges, notably from Abdullah bin Ubay, a key figure known for his hypocrisy and efforts to destabilize the Muslim community. His actions, including slander, hoaxes, and provocations, posed serious threats to the unity and progress of Islamic da'wah during its formative years. This study investigates the impact of Abdullah bin Ubay’s negative communications and the strategic responses of the Prophet between the 2nd and 9th years of Hijrah. Using a qualitative, library-based research method and a political-historical lens, the study identifies two main types of messages from Abdullah bin Ubay: verbal and non-verbal. Verbal attacks included slander, such as the false accusations during the Battle of Banu Mustaliq and the incident involving Aisyah and Shafwan bin al-Mu’attal. Non-verbal provocations included actions like troop withdrawal during the Battle of Uhud, intended to weaken morale and sow division. In response, Prophet Muhammad employed a set of wise and strategic communication methods. He showed patience, avoided public confrontation, and entrusted inner intentions to Allah’s judgment. He used reasoned dialogue, refrained from punitive actions like leading Ubay’s funeral prayer, and chose reconciliation over retaliation. The Prophet also promoted consultation, verified information, and practiced direct clarification to counter hoaxes. The study concludes that the Prophet’s approach reflects a profound balance of spiritual integrity, political wisdom, and social resilience, offering enduring lessons in leadership, conflict resolution, and ethical communication

The Influence of Social Status, Economic Status, Political Affiliation of Parents, and Organizational Experience on the Empty Box Phenomenon in the 2024 Maros Regional Head Election

2025-07-31T16:11:44+00:00

This study analyzes the influence of Social Status, Economic Status, Political Affiliation of Parents, and Organizational Experience on the Empty Box Discourse in the 2024 Maros Regency Regent Election. This study uses a quantitative approach with a survey method through distributing questionnaires to the public in Maros Regency to explore the relationship between variables and the empty box phenomenon in implementing regional elections. Data processing was carried out with the help of SmartPLS software using the Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) technique. The results showed that the emergence of a single candidate in the 2024 Maros regional head election was caused by the community's lack of courage to run for office, which was influenced by the strong dominance of incumbent candidates. Furthermore, people's political participation in the election is analyzed through four main variables, all of which positively affect the empty box discourse. Thus, all hypotheses in this study are accepted.

Global and Regional Evolution of Economic Communication Research (1960–2024): Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis

2025-08-08T13:32:58+00:00

This study provides the first longitudinal and global mapping of the evolution of Economic Communication from 1960 to 2024 by combining a systematic literature review (PRISMA) with bibliometric analysis (VOSviewer) of 117 Scopus-indexed articles. The findings reveal that the field has transformed from fragmented, discipline-specific studies into an interdisciplinary domain shaped by digital transformation, globalization, and shifting policy agendas. Five interconnected thematic clusters were identified—macroeconomic growth, sustainability communication, ICT–FDI linkages, digital inequality, and crisis-related messaging—highlighting communication’s function as a governance tool, an enabler of inclusive participation, and a driver of resilience. By embedding these clusters within frameworks such as Risk Communication Theory, the Digital Divide Framework, and Global Value Chain Theory, the study advances conceptual clarity and situates communication at the center of development and policy discourse. Its contribution lies in offering a theory-anchored synthesis that bridges structural mapping with interpretive insight, while foregrounding emerging contributions from the Global South. Limitations include reliance on Scopus and English-language publications, which risks selection and language bias. Future research should expand to multi-database and multilingual corpora, integrate mixed-method approaches, and examine AI-mediated communication to address inequalities and institutional trust in diverse contexts.

Measuring Public Satisfaction with Dottoro’ta Digital-Based Home Care Services in Makassar City: A Servqual Study Using SEM-PLS

2025-08-02T11:41:47+00:00

The Homecare Dottoro'ta service is an innovative health service based on home visits implemented by the Makassar City Government to improve access and the quality of public health services. This study aims to examine the influence of service quality dimensions on the satisfaction level of the community using the Home Care Dottoro'ta services. This study uses a quantitative approach with a survey method by distributing questionnaires to 96 respondents who are active users of the service. Data analysis was conducted using SEM-PLS software to analyze and test the hypotheses. The research results show that reliability, assurance, and empathy have a positive and significant impact on community satisfaction, with T-statistics values of 4.259 (P-value 0.000), 2.494 (P-value 0.013), and 2.647 (P-value 0.008), respectively. Meanwhile, tangible and responsiveness do not show significant influence, with T-statistics values of 6.000 (P-value 0.549) and 2.771 (P-value 0.441). These findings affirm that accuracy, trust in the competence of the staff, and an empathetic approach are the main determinants in shaping the perception of service satisfaction. This study recommends increased professionalism and humanistic communication from medical staff and a thorough evaluation of service dimensions that have not yet significantly contributed to public satisfaction to support the sustainability and optimization of Dottoro'ta Home Care services in Makassar City.

Astrophotography as a Medium for Affective Sustainability Communication in Alternative Tourism: A Qualitative Study Using Photo Elicitation

2025-08-08T13:36:08+00:00

Sustainability communication in the tourism sector often faces challenges in fostering substantial public engagement, primarily due to a reliance on overly rational and academic approaches. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the potential of astrophotography as an effective visual communication medium for conveying sustainability values. Employing a qualitative approach, specifically through photo elicitation and a visual hermeneutics framework, this research analyzes how audiences interpret astrophotography images and the impact of these interpretations on their perceptions of environmental issues. The findings indicate that night sky imagery effectively elicits profound affective responses, such as experiences of transcendence, contemplation, and nostalgia. These responses contribute directly to an increased ecological awareness and a greater appreciation for preserving the night sky from light pollution. The study's findings affirm that astrophotography can function as a powerful visual bridge, connecting aesthetic beauty with the urgency of environmental conservation. This research not only enriches the visual communication literature but also provides a practical foundation for tourism stakeholders to leverage astrophotography as an effective tool for promoting responsible tourism and enhancing environmental awareness.

Examining Advocacy Journalism on Overtourism in Bali: Bibliometrics and Content Analysis of Balebengong.id in 2024

2025-07-17T15:29:36+00:00

As a popular global tourist destination, Bali faces overtourism, affecting the environment, society, and economy. This study examines how BaleBengong, a citizen journalism-based alternative media, addresses overtourism through advocacy journalism. The research aims to explore BaleBengong's role in raising the issue of overtourism and to analyze the application of advocacy journalism in articles published by BaleBengong in 2024. Using a qualitative method with content analysis and literature review, the findings reveal that Balebengong practices advocacy journalism by reframing overtourism not merely as excessive visitor numbers but as a structural issue rooted in investor-driven development and policy failures. It amplifies marginalised local voices, critiques spatial domination, and proposes culturally grounded alternatives. The role of Balebengong is not only as a critical watchdog but also as an agent of counter-hegemony and policy advocacy, offering valuable insights into the role of citizen journalism in shaping sustainable tourism futures.