Generation Z is the first generation to use digital technology and exhibits distinct media consumption characteristics, yet television remains relevant when it presents content, such assoap operas, that resonates with their experiences. This study aims to analyze therepresentation of conflict in the soap opera “Asmara Gen Z”episode 322 through Robert Entman’s four dimensions of framing to uncover the ideological values and social responsibilities conveyed to Gen Z audiences. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing Entman’s framing model analysis and in-depth interviews with six Gen Z informants. The results indicate that the conflict is framed as a personal character conflict reinforced by an inconsistent school policy system. The“9 Ilmu”group is represented as a highly solidary group expected to yield, whereas“Tirta Persada”is depicted as a privileged group making excessive demands. This study concludes thatsoap operastransmit four paradoxical values: passive adaptive solidarity, empathy, ambiguous distributive justice, and maturity as passivity, collectively reinforcing the ideology of“Privileged Compassion.”Recommendations are directed atsoap operacreators to develop narratives that are more attuned to issues of distributive justice, emphasizing solutions centered on personal attitude change rather than systemic reform.
Keywords: Framing Analysis; Conflict Representation; Gen Z Soap Operas; DistributiveJustice, Mass Media