Exploring the Interrelationship Between Fear of Missing Out, Self-Esteem, and Anxiety Among Gen Z Social Media Users

This study explores the interrelationship between Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), self-esteem, and anxiety among Generation Z social media users. As digital natives, this demographic is uniquely positioned to experience the psychological impacts of social media, including heightened feelings of FOMO, which are often exacerbated by constant exposure to curated online content. The research employs a quantitative approach, surveying 500 participants aged 18 to 24 to assess their levels of FOMO, self-esteem, and anxiety using validated measurement scales. The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between FOMO and anxiety, indicating that individuals who experience higher levels of FOMO are more likely to report increased anxiety symptoms. Conversely, a negative correlation is found between FOMO and self-esteem, suggesting that higher FOMO is associated with lower self-worth. Importantly, self-esteem is identified as a mediating factor in the relationship between FOMO and anxiety, implying that individuals with lower self-esteem are more vulnerable to anxiety when experiencing high levels of FOMO. These results contribute to the growing body of literature on the psychological effects of social media, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing self-esteem and reducing FOMO among Gen Z. Recommendations for mental health practitioners, educators, and policymakers are provided, highlighting the importance of fostering digital literacy and promoting healthy social media habits. This study underscores the critical need for ongoing research into the mental health implications of social media use, particularly as Generation Z continues to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.