FOMO Unpacked: The Psychology of Missing Out in a Social Media World

In this episode of The Psychology of Us, Professor RJ Starr explores one of the most pervasive feelings in modern life: the fear of missing out, or FOMO. While FOMO may feel like a recent phenomenon driven by social media, its roots go much deeper, stemming from our innate need for connection and belonging. Through a blend of psychological theory and personal anecdotes, Professor Starr delves into why we experience FOMO, how it impacts our mental health, and what it means for our emotional well-being in a world filled with constant comparisons.

Professor Starr explains the evolutionary origins of FOMO, showing how our ancestors' survival depended on being part of a group and how that deep fear of exclusion still influences us today. He connects this primal instinct to social comparison theory, discussing how we measure our lives against others and how platforms like Instagram and TikTok amplify this tendency. The episode offers valuable insights into how these forces shape our thoughts and behaviors, making FOMO not just about missing an event, but about feeling left out of life’s most important connections.

By the end of the episode, listeners will walk away with practical tools for overcoming FOMO. Professor Starr shares strategies like mindfulness, cognitive reframing, and embracing JOMO (the joy of missing out) as ways to find peace and presence in our own lives. This episode is a reminder that while FOMO is natural, it doesn’t have to define us. Tune in to learn how to transform this common fear into an opportunity for more intentional, meaningful living.

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