Exploring the Bidirectional Relationship between FoMO, Intensive, and Problematic Social Media Use: The Role of Friendship Quality

Abstract

Widespread use of social media among Dutch adolescents raises concerns regarding (Problematic) Social Media Use, Fear of Missing Out and its related consequences. However, the relationship between FoMO, (P)SMU and quality of friendships remains scarcely studied. This research aimed to explore the bidirectional relationship between FoMO and (P)SMU, and the possible moderating effect of quality of friendships. Data from a longitudinal study conducted in the Netherlands called the Digital Youth Project (DiYo) were used. Participants (N = 1369) completed surveys regarding FoMO, (P)SMU and perceived quality of friendships across two annual waves. Findings showed a significant increase of SMU and PSMU one year later when FoMO was heightened. In addition, higher (P)SMU also predicted a heightened levels of FoMO. The impact of FoMO on (P)SMU seems to be higher when the perceived quality of friendships is relatively low and relatively high, compared to the moderate group. The results place importance on the interplay between FoMO, (P)SMU and quality of friendships, as bidirectionality was established, which could indicate a vicious cycle whereby FoMO and (P)SMU strengthen each other. Policy and intervention measures could benefit from these findings as it would prove useful to target both FoMO and (P)SMU. Additionally, attention should be paid to the finding that an interaction between (P)SMU and high perceived quality of friendships could further impact FoMO, as current research often places emphasis on the adolescent with a low quality of friendships. Having close friends could be of influence on the relationship between (P)SMU and FoMO.