Worrying about missing out on group activities, especially ones that build social connections, heightens “fear of missing out” or FOMO, according to new research from Cornell’s SC Johnson College of Business. FOMO is the anxiety that others are living better or more enjoyable lives, and it has become more prominent with the rise of social media. A OnePoll survey found that 69% of Americans have experienced FOMO at least once.
The study shows that FOMO is mainly driven by concerns over missing chances to bond with friends, not by the event itself. People with social anxiety are especially vulnerable to these worries. Interestingly, FOMO is less about missing out on strangers’ activities and more about missing moments with people we care about.
“FOMO isn’t really about the event,” the researchers explain. “If you miss a group dinner, it’s not the food or drinks that matter. It’s the lost opportunity to connect with others.”
Driving the fear
The researchers conducted seven experiments with over 5,000 participants, exploring FOMO in different settings, like concerts and social gatherings. They found that missing events is far more upsetting if one’s social group is there. For example, missing a concert by a favourite artist is less bothersome if friends aren’t attending. But if they are, FOMO increases significantly.
The research also reveals that FOMO isn’t limited to fun events. Missing stressful but bonding experiences, like helping a friend through a tough time, can also trigger it. It’s not the difficulty of the event that matters but the missed chance to strengthen relationships.
Social media amplifies FOMO by showing people bonding in real time. This can create worries about being left out or seen as less involved in the group. People may fear that if they miss enough bonding experiences, they’ll be excluded.
Combating FOMO
However, the study suggests there are ways to combat FOMO. In one experiment, participants who reflected on past meaningful connections felt less anxious about missing new events.
FOMO tends to affect those with higher social anxiety or a strong need for connection. These people are more likely to constantly check social media, which can create the impression that others are always socializing, making FOMO worse.
FOMO can harm mental health, leading to lower well-being, compulsive smartphone use, and risky behaviours like distracted driving. The researchers stress that FOMO isn’t just a problem for young social media users—it can affect anyone who values close relationships.
The study’s findings offer insights into how to reduce FOMO. Simple strategies like focusing on existing relationships or practicing mindfulness could help. Ultimately, reminding ourselves that we already belong can ease the anxiety of missing out on future events.
