Is fear of missing out (FOMO) differentially related to underlying dimensions of negative affectivity? Analyzing latent factors of rumination, depression, and negative affect

Background/objectives: The Fear of Missing Out on rewarding experiences (FOMO) is linked with increased and problematic social media use. FOMO is also robustly correlated with negative affectivity constructs. However, research has not yet examined FOMO's relations with underlying dimensions of negative affectivity variables, to discover more specific aspects of negative affectivity with which FOMO may be most related. Design/methods: We analyzed data from 461 American university students for a web survey conducted in 2024, administering self-report scales assessing FOMO, rumination, negative affect, and depression. Results: Using confirmatory factor analyses, we discovered that FOMO was significantly more related to rumination's brooding factor than reflection factor. FOMO was equally related to underlying factors of negative affect and depression. Conclusions: These results help improve our understanding of the psychopathology of FOMO, elucidating its more granular relationship with the brooding type of rumination, and the mechanisms by which FOMO may related to depression and anxiety. Results are discussed in the context of FOMO's relationship with an increased social comparison orientation and social anxiety.