Social Media Microtrends and the Economic Realities of Young Consumers

Authors

• Camila Berumen, St. Mary's University

Files

Contributor

Hampsten, Katherine (Faculty Mentor)

Digital Publisher

Digital Commons at St. Mary's University

Publication Date

Spring 2026

Keywords

Social Media, Trends, Economics, Young consumers

Description

This study expects to reveal how social media microtrends act as indicators of the economic realities' young consumers experience, including financial pressure, shifting spending habits, and changing values around consumption. By analyzing how these realities are expressed through digital trends, the research will provide a deeper understanding of how economic conditions are communicated in everyday online behavior. This research addresses the issue that traditional economic measures often overlook lived experience, especially among younger generations. By focusing on microtrends, the study offers a more nuanced and accessible way to understand how economic realities are felt and expressed, rather than just measured. The study will build on existing knowledge in communication studies by connecting digital media practices with economic meaning making. It opens opportunities for further research on how online culture reflects broader social and economic conditions. Additionally, it can contribute to social awareness by highlighting the financial challenges young consumers face, encouraging more inclusive conversations about economic inequality. By recognizing social media as a space where economic realities are shared and interpreted, this research also supports greater participation in understanding and discussing financial experiences.

Format

PDF

Size

1 poster

City

San Antonio, Texas

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.