<![CDATA[The growth of digital technology has changed the way teenagers communicate and interact, including through online games that use avatars. This study aims to examine how students at SMAN 5 Batam understand the meaning of Roblox avatars, how they use avatars to represent themselves, and how avatars help shape their self-identity through virtual interaction. This research used a qualitative descriptive method in the field of communication studies. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, documentation, and literature review. The participants consisted of one key informant and five informants selected using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, and the validity of the findings was checked through source triangulation, technique triangulation, and member checking. The results show that most participants see avatars as more than game characters. They use avatars to show their personality, interests, style, and personal preferences. Many participants choose clothes, colors, accessories, and avatar designs based on what they like or the image they want to show to other players. Creating and changing avatars also helps them understand themselves better, feel more confident, and interact more easily with other players. However, some participants see avatars only as part of the game and do not connect them with their real identity. The study concludes that Roblox avatars are not only digital characters but also communication tools that help teenagers express themselves and build their self-identity through social interaction in the virtual world.]]>
