The Influence of Environment on Children's Mindsets in the Novel Di Tanah Lada by Ziggy Zezsyazeoviennazabrizkie

Abstract

The family environment and social environment are the main factors influencing the formation of a child's mindset. The experiences gained by children through interactions with parents, family members, and the surrounding environment will shape how children view themselves, others, and social life. This study aims to analyse the influence of the environment on the mindset of the characters in the novel *Di Tanah Lada* by Ziggy Zezsyazeoviennazabrizkie, using a sociological approach to literature. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method with the primary data source being the novel *Di Tanah Lada*. Data collection was carried out through reading techniques, note-taking, and library research, followed by descriptive analysis linking elements within the text to social realities. The results indicate that a family environment filled with violence, neglect, and imbalanced power relations shapes Ava’s perception of the father figure, the role of children, and concepts of a normal life. Conversely, positive experiences with Kakek Kia, Pepper, Mas Alri, and Kak Suri demonstrate that the social environment can also serve as a space that fosters a more positive way of thinking. The novel *Di Tanah Lada* represents that a child's mindset is not formed naturally but is the result of a socialisation process that occurs through life experiences within family and community environments. These findings reinforce the sociological perspective that literary works reflect social realities while also highlighting the importance of a healthy environment in supporting the development of a child's mindset.