The present study investigated the influence of engaging in online regulatory behaviors in the use of one’s smart phone and the outcomes of those behaviors on perceived online behavioral control ...Show moreThe present study investigated the influence of engaging in online regulatory behaviors in the use of one’s smart phone and the outcomes of those behaviors on perceived online behavioral control (PoBC). Additionally, the moderating influence of PoBC on the relationship between Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and the frequency of checking one’s smartphone was investigated. We were also interested in the relationship between social media fatigue and academic stress. A convenience sample of Dutch-speaking students (N = 82) completed a 15-minute self-report questionnaire assessing FoMO, frequency of smartphone checking, PoBC, and online regulatory behaviors. Contrary to our expectations, PoBC does not weaken the relationship between FoMO and participants’ frequency of checking one’s smartphone. On the one hand, as expected, in the subgroup of participants with a weaker sense of PoBC, the correlation between FoMO and the frequency of checking one’s smartphone is positive, although not significant (r = .20), indicating that participants with higher levels of FoMO tend to check their phone more frequently. On the other hand, however, in the subgroup of participants with a stronger sense of control, the correlation is not weakened, but remains equally strong (r = -.20, again n.s.), but this time negative, suggesting that in this subgroup of participants, higher levels of FoMO tend to be associated with less frequent phone-checking. A possible explanation for this unexpected result is offered in the Discussion. Furthermore, unexpectedly, participants experiencing more social media fatigue do not experience more academic stress. However, individuals who believe that regulating their online behavior is effective to not be distracted, perceive a stronger sense of control over their online behavior. This study suggests that enhancing the belief that regulatory behaviors may help to prevent unwanted disturbances.Show less
This thesis examines the association between living in an urban environment and perceived feelings of missing out (FoMO) among university students. Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, my...Show moreThis thesis examines the association between living in an urban environment and perceived feelings of missing out (FoMO) among university students. Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, my study explores a potential relationship between urban living and FoMO levels and reasons for students' experience of FoMO. The central research question focuses on how living in an urban environment as a student relates to the experience of FoMO. My study conducts a statistical analysis, specifically Kendall's correlation coefficient, to examine the association between living urban and levels of FoMO. Surprisingly, the results show no significant association, which may be attributed to the small sample size used in the study. Therefore, future research with larger and more diverse samples is needed to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between urban living and FoMO among university students. Additionally, my study conducts thematic analysis, revealing differences in the reasons behind FoMO experiences among students living in more urban and less urban environments. Students in urban settings often mention roommates as a source of FoMO, while students in less urban environments report different reasons. These findings highlight the influence of social dynamics and environmental factors specific to different urban settings on FoMO experiences. The research underscores the importance of investigating both online and offline factors contributing to FoMO. While existing literature primarily focuses on online factors, such as social media use, my study emphasises the need to explore offline factors, including living with many opportunities for social connection and physical proximity to social events. Understanding the multifaceted nature of FoMO can help in developing more effective strategies to reduce people’s experienced levels and address the associated negative mental health effects among university students. In conclusion, this study finds no significant association between living in an urban environment and FoMO levels among university students. It highlights the necessity for future research with larger and more diverse samples, while also emphasising the importance of investigating both online and offline factors contributing to FoMO experiences. This can in the future help to develop better strategies and interventions to reduce FoMO and the added negative mental health effects among university students.Show less
