Parallel mediation of FoMO and self-control on the relationship between problematic smartphone use and neuroticism, at-risk group's characteristics among young adults

Previous studies have demonstrated several negative effects of smartphone use (SU) on mental, physical and social health. But, SU does not necessarily lead to adverse outcomes; positive effects can relate to the users' differences, such as types of use, mental health and personality. The present study aimed to examine the characteristics of SU, and relationships between SU and mental health as well as personality among young adults, and to describe an at-risk group for problematic smartphone use (PSU). Young adults, university students aged between 18 and 35, participated in the study. Around one-third of young adults showed 'heavy process' SU with increased usage time and PSU, compared to 'pure social' and 'light process' groups. Self-control (SC, β = -0.260, p < 0.001), neuroticism (NEURO, β = 0.180, p = 0.008) and FoMO (β = 0.353, p < 0.001) predicted PSU. The mediation analysis revealed a significant indirect effect of NEURO and PSU through FoMO as well as SC; fully and parallel mediated the relationship between NEURO and PSU. The at-risk group is characterized by a higher level of NEURO, FoMO, and BASD, a lower level of SC, BIS, and BAS-FS, and is associated with poorer sleep quality. Our findings revealed that a lower level of self-control, a higher level of FoMO and a higher level of neuroticism are potential predictors for PSU associated with several mental health issues. FoMO and self-control can be important mediators in the relationship between neuroticism and PSU; thus, PSU and adverse mental health outcomes may be reduced by the management of self-control and FoMO.