Memes as a Coping Tool: Exploring the Role of Meme Culture in Navigating Existential Dread

This research paper aims to explore the relationship between memes and existential dread and if memes help people in dealing with existential worries. To conduct this study 35 participants were randomly selected. All participants were Indian within the age range of 18-42 years. An online survey-based questionnaire was developed to collect the data. The questionnaire consists of six questions with images of the memes related to existential dread with “yes” or “no” options, four close-ended questions and two open-ended questions. The data was collected through online mode. The study is based on a qualitative method, and to analyse the data, thematic and content analysis methods were used. The analysis demonstrated how internet memes function as a special tool and point of access for individuals to process and express their existential worries. The analysis of how the memes resonate with the audience may very well prove humor and creativity in meme culture will ease the pain of isolation and anxiety.