A Study on How Social Media FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) Impacts the Gen Z Audience

doi:10.2139/ssrn.4964157

Paper

A Study on How Social Media FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) Impacts the Gen Z Audience

Published Sep 30, 2024 · Debangana Chakrabarti

SSRN Electronic Journal

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Abstract

Generation Z, or Gen Z, refers to people born between 1995 and 2010, often known as "zoomers," the first generation to fully embrace the internet. This paper focuses on the impact of socialmedia-induced Fear ofMissing Out (FOMO) on Generation Z, blending with the characteristics of digital nativity and extensive engagement with social media platforms. Fear of Missing Out, or FOMO, was uniquely introduced in 2004 with the rise of social networking sites. It centers on anxiety and how, for Gen Z, this plays a pivotal role in making one feel absent from rewarding experiences. This study delves into the effects on mental health, psychological well-being, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. It explores social media analytics regarding usage, compulsive checking, behavioural consequences, following trends, and real-life social interactions. The findings highlight the need for strategies to mitigate FOMO's adverse effects, promoting healthier social media habits and fostering a more balanced approach to digital consumption.

Study Snapshot

Social media FOMO negatively impacts Gen Z's mental health, psychological well-being, self-esteem, and life satisfaction, highlighting the need for strategies to promote healthier social media habits.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

A Study on How Social Media FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) Impacts the Gen Z Audience

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