FEAR OF MISSING OUT (FOMO) AND PROBLEMATIC SMARTPHONE USE AS PREDICTORS OF ACADEMIC PROCRASTINATION AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65009/3fyc2r34Keywords:
Fear of Missing Out, FoMO, problematic smartphone use, academic procrastination, college students, social media.,,Abstract
Academic procrastination has become a common concern among college students, affecting
academic performance, mental well-being, and overall productivity. With the widespread use of
smartphones and social networking platforms, students are increasingly vulnerable to distractions
that interfere with their academic responsibilities. Among the psychological factors contributing
to procrastination, Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and problematic smartphone use have received
significant attention. FoMO refers to the persistent apprehension that others may be having
rewarding experiences without one's participation, leading individuals to remain constantly
connected to social media and digital communication. Problematic smartphone use, characterized
by excessive and compulsive smartphone engagement, further intensifies this issue by reducing
concentration and increasing task avoidance. This paper examines the relationship between FoMO,
problematic smartphone use, and academic procrastination among college students. It argues that
both FoMO and excessive smartphone use significantly predict procrastination by promoting
distraction, poor self-regulation, and diminished academic engagement. The paper also discusses
practical interventions for educational institutions and students to minimize these negative effects.
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