Cognitive Dissonance Among Muslim Consumers: A Qualitative Study of the Use of Paylater Features Among Generation Z in Islamic Boarding Schools

Eva Pelitawati (Department of Islamic Economics, Sheikh Nurjati State Islamic University of Cirebon)
Abdul Aziz (Department of Islamic Economics, Sheikh Nurjati State Islamic University of Cirebon)
Saeful Bakhri (Department of Islamic Economics, Sheikh Nurjati State Islamic University of Cirebon)

JURNAL ECONOMINA
Vol. 5 No. 5 (2026): JURNAL ECONOMINA, Mei 2026

This study examines the consumption paradox among Generation Z students at the Al-Ma’rifah Islamic Boarding School in Cirebon regarding the use of “pay-later” features. Using a descriptive qualitative method with a phenomenological approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with fifteen informants selected through purposive sampling. The results indicate the presence of cognitive dissonance that is resolved through three mechanisms: labeling interest as an administrative fee, normalization due to peer pressure, and identity compartmentalization. These findings confirm a shift from substantive Sharia compliance to practical adaptation in the interest of a digital lifestyle. Therefore, the Sharia economics curriculum needs to integrate digital financial literacy to uphold the financial morality of the students.