Examination of the FoMO concept in the context of social media: Using Instagram as an example

The main idea of this study is why "FoMO anxiety", which means the fear of missing out on social media updates arises. This study will investigate the role of Instagram in the formation of this anxiety, how effective the "FoMO anxiety" that comes with Instagram is on people, and why users are constantly entering Instagram. It aims to reveal the factors that trigger the desire. In line with this view, it has been observed that users experience FoMO anxiety due to the effects of Instagram, how the "FoMO anxiety" that comes with Instagram changes the lives of individuals, what this leads them to, the reasons why individuals frequently enter social media, and why they are worried when social media cannot be used. A qualitative method suitable for the purpose of the study was used, and the research was financed by netnography. The criterion model was used as a sample in the study. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 20 participants, 10 men and 10 women, between the ages of 18-35, who actively use the Instagram application. The information obtained as a result of this interview was analyzed with descriptive techniques. As a result of the analysis, the findings of the study were interpreted in line with the themes. As a result of the research, the biggest factor in the emergence of FoMO anxiety in individuals is Instagram, a wide content that makes Instagram different from other social media, a constantly updated stream and a personalized stream for users with different usage features it offers to users. It seems to be a big factor in giving everyone the opportunity to be watched and appreciated. FoMO when the individual does not enter Instagram; It is seen that individuals experience anxiety and fear of not being able to follow the updates. It has been observed that FoMO anxiety affects the individual negatively with situations such as feeling deficient, lack of self-confidence, fear and the need to stay in constant contact with others.