FoMO and the science behind the fear of missing out

The phenomenon known as FoMO, or ‘Fear of Missing Out’, describes the anxiety felt when individuals believe they are missing out on rewarding experiences occurring elsewhere. While the term has gained prominence in the digital age, the underlying impulse is rooted in human evolution; historically, being excluded from a tribe could threaten survival.

In the modern context, social media and algorithms exacerbate this feeling by encouraging compulsive checking of feeds to stay updated on trends and social cues. This behavior can trigger the dopaminergic system, creating a cycle of seeking quick rewards. Additionally, corporations often leverage this generational anxiety to drive consumerism, positioning the acquisition of products and services as a way to remain relevant and connected to current trends.