JOMO: Joy of missing out and its association with social media use, self-perception, and mental health

Abstract

The potential validity and utility of a joy of missing out (JOMO) construct in relation to social media use, self-perception, and indicators of mental health was examined. This research follows from evidence that fear of missing out (FOMO) on social activities is associated with social media use, low self-esteem, loneliness, and internalizing problems. Data were collected in two samples of adults ages 18 to 59 (Study 1: n = 507, mage = 37.07, sd = 9.15, male = 59.3%; Study 2: n = 488, mage = 35.84, sd = 9.36, male = 55.5%). Study 1 took a variable-centered approach, with total JOMO scores relating moderately to FOMO, social anxiety, social media use during daily activities, life satisfaction, and mindfulness. In the second study, a person-centered approach based on JOMO, social media use during daily activities, and loneliness provided support for 4 classes of participants. A relatively low number of participants were classified into a cluster including high JOMO scores. This cluster reported internalizing difficulties but also high life satisfaction. The findings across both studies indicate that JOMO, as operationalized, may be uncommon given a general preference to connect with others. Further, the construct may encompass a capacity to attain a state of positive self-perception for some but also social anxiety for others. Additional work on JOMO as a state-based construct and/or that emphasizes motives for missing out may be warranted.