VIRTUAL WORLD AND REAL LIFE: COGNITIVE DISSONANCE ARISING IN THE SOCIAL ADAPTATION OF YOUTH

Аннотация:

The rapid development of digital technologies has catalyzed a profound shift in the psychological landscape of contemporary youth, leading to the emergence of a sophisticated "virtual identity" that frequently exists in direct opposition to physical reality. This article provides a comprehensive and multifaceted analysis of the psychological bifurcations between virtual environments and real-life experiences among modern adolescents and young adults in Uzbekistan. Drawing upon Leon Festinger’s seminal theory of cognitive dissonance, the study meticulously examines the complex crises inherent in the social adaptation process, specifically focusing on the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) syndrome and the growing phenomenon of digital escapism. The research involves a structured investigation of 120 university students, utilizing a Dissonance Measurement Scale to highlight how curated digital personas create an "identity gap" that impairs genuine social functioning and emotional intelligence. The findings of this study suggest that the instantaneous gratification provided by virtual platforms, mediated by rapid dopamine release, contrasts sharply with the effort-intensive nature of real-world achievements, resulting in internal psychological conflict and a decrease in real-world conflict resolution skills. Furthermore, the paper discusses the "Online Disinhibition Effect" and its role in creating a false sense of security. Consequently, the article offers evidence-based scientific recommendations aimed at mitigating these contradictions, emphasizing the necessity of integrating emotional intelligence (EQ) with digital literacy within higher education. The conclusion underscores that educational frameworks must prioritize "digital hygiene" and mental health support to ensure that the virtual world serves as a facilitative tool rather than a substitute for authentic interpersonal engagement and social integration. This study serves as a critical resource for educators, sociologists, and psychologists in navigating the increasingly complex digital-real world dichotomy.