Advances in Economics & Financial Studies
Vol. 4 No. 3 (2026)

A Phenomenological Analysis of FOMO, Impulsive Buying, and Personal Financial Management among Generation Z in Surabaya

Gema Merdeka Goeyardi (Universitas Narotama, Surabaya, Indonesia)
Agus Sukoco (Universitas Narotama, Surabaya, Indonesia)
Yulianah Yulianah (Universitas Kebangsaan Republik Indonesia, Bandung, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
06 Oct 2026

Abstract

Purpose: This study explores how Generation Z in Surabaya experiences fear of missing out (FOMO) and impulsive buying and how these experiences shape personal financial management. Research Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological design was used. Informants were purposively selected from Generation Z residents of Surabaya who actively use social media and had experienced impulsive purchasing influenced by digital trends. Data were generated through in-depth interviews, passive observation of digital-lifestyle activities, and available expense or transaction documentation. Analysis followed phenomenological procedures including bracketing, horizonalization, thematic clustering, and identification of textural and structural essences. Results: Three interconnected themes emerged: digital and urban social pressure, impulsive buying as emotional coping and social validation, and digitally mediated perceptions of purchasing power. The accounts linked these experiences with reactive financial practices, weaker long-term financial prioritization, and greater acceptance of consumer debt. Research limitations/Implications: The context-specific qualitative design limits statistical generalization. Future research should examine broader populations and compare different urban settings. The findings support financial-literacy interventions that address emotional spending, social comparison, and responsible digital-credit use. Originality: The study integrates FOMO, impulsive buying, digital finance, and personal financial management through a phenomenological account of urban Generation Z experiences.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

AEFS

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

Founded in 2023, Advances in Economics & Financial Studies publishes original research that promises to advance our understanding of Economics & Financial Studies over diverse topics and research methods. This Journal welcomes research of significance across a wide range of primary and applied ...