The Impact of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) on Gen Z Lifestyle

Authors :  

Luthfiah Shafa Dwi Astuti, Salsabila Jalaluddin , Tatu Zakiyatun Nufus

Psychology faculty of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia  

 

Abstract  

This article discusses the impact of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) on Generation Z's lifestyle, with social media as a moderator. It explores the concept of FoMO, the characteristics of Generation Z, the influence of social media, and its impact on lifestyle. The research findings suggest that FoMO may lead to excessive social media use, social discomfort, and a hedonistic and consumptive lifestyle. This study utilized a literature review methodology to gather information from previous research. The Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) phenomenon has a significant impact on Generation Z's lifestyle, especially in relation to the use of smartphones and social media. It can have both positive and negative effects, including increased motivation but also impaired social skills and increased consumptive behavior. Understanding FoMO is important to realize how the digital lifestyle and social media affect Generation Z's behavior and lifestyle.

Keywords: FoMo, Gen Z, Social Media .  

 

Introduction  

This article is based on a situation or condition that is currently rife in the social environment, namely the emergence of a phenomenon commonly referred to as FoMO or Fear of Missing Out. FoMo or Fear of Missing Out is a phenomenon of an individual's concern not being up to date or the fear of missing out on interesting information. FoMO can be characterized by the length of time playing social media. Individuals want to continue playing social media because they are afraid or do not want to be late for new information. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to determine the effect of FoMO on the lifestyle of Gen Z.

According to Przybylski (2013), what we call the phenomenon of Fear of Missing Out or FoMO is a situation when people have a great desire to stay connected to what others are doing through cyberspace.  The phenomenon of FoMO has become an integral part of Generation Z (Gen Z) life. Generation Z is the newest working generation, born between 1995 and 2012, also known as the net generation or internet generation (Stillman Research, 2017). Social media is one of the factors that trigger FoMO or contribute greatly to the emergence of FoMO. Social media creates an easily accessible place for individuals to find out what other people are doing and from that, many individuals end up developing negative feelings and emotions on social media because of feelings of envy towards other people's posts and lives.