Perspective Chapter: The Impact of Social Media on the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) among Teenagers Aged between 18 and 25

Abstract

In recent years, social media has significantly transformed human interaction and communication. One emerging phenomenon is the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), which refers to the anxiety individuals feel when they believe they are missing out on rewarding experiences. This study explores the relationship between social media usage and FOMO among teenagers aged 18–25. While social media facilitates constant connectivity, it also contributes to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety as users compare their lives to curated online content. This research, employing a mixed-methods approach of surveys and focus groups, reveals a positive correlation between time spent on social media and FOMO, with significant psychological impacts. Despite minimal differences in FOMO levels across age and gender, the study underscores the profound effects on teenagers’ mental health. It also highlights the need for strategies to manage FOMO and suggests implications for social media designers, educators, and policymakers to foster healthier social media habits among young adults.