Fear of Missing Out Moderating the Association Between Social Media Usage and Subjective Well-Being Among Young Adults

The present study explores the connection between Social Media Engagement (SME), Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), and Subjective Well-Being (SWB) of young adults in Punjab. Taking a cross-sectional, correlational approach, this study made use of non-probability convenience sampling to collect data from Punjab. Statistical analysis was applied to determine whether a positive correlation existed between SME and FOMO, while a negative correlation between SME and SWB; moreover, FOMO is assumed to mediate the SME-SWB relationship. These findings are in line with theories of Self-Determination and Social Comparison, which postulate that social media cultivates upward comparisons and unmet psychological needs, thereby negatively impacting SWB. The outcomes have implications for mental health interventions and policies that could combat FOMO by encouraging the balanced use of social media. This study highlights the need to promote digital literacy and awareness programs among young adults to counter the psychological burden of excessive social media engagement. Future research should explore longitudinal and cross-cultural perspectives to enhance understanding of these dynamics.