ABSTRACT. Gossip is a daily phenomenon but largely neglected in the scientific literature. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the dynamics of gossip activities in the Tilik short movie. The theory used is the Self-Concept Enhancing Tactician (SCENT) model, which shows that a person is looking for information and evaluating that information with three objectives: self-empowerment, self-promotion, and selfprotection. The method used in this study was an interpretative qualitative approach (Denzin) to explain the function of gossip in Tilik movie. The result of this study indicates that gossip has two prominent functions: self-promotion and selfprotection. If the gossip is perceived by the gossipmongers as a downward comparison, the chance for self-promotion is higher. Meanwhile, if it is considered as a threat, individuals will protect themselves in various ways. Self-promotion involves the emotion of pride and self-protection involves the emotion of fear. This research is expected to add insight into how gossip is used in society.
