The interplay between FoMO and JoMO in smartphone addiction and well-being

Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and Joy of Missing Out (JoMO) have often been conceptualized as opposing tendencies. However, emerging evidence suggests they may coexist within individuals, raising the need to understand their joint impact on smartphone addiction and well-being. This study focuses on JoMO’s potential role as a protective factor that may buffer the negative effects of FoMO. A sample of 2,058 Israeli adults completed an online survey assessing FoMO, JoMO, smartphone addiction, and well-being. Cluster analysis identified four profiles based on combinations of high and low FoMO and JoMO. Multinomial logistic regressions examined demographic and behavioral characteristics associated with different profiles, and outcomes were compared across profiles. Participants with low FoMO and high JoMO reported the most favorable outcomes, lower smartphone addiction and higher well-being, while those high in FoMO and low in JoMO showed the opposite pattern. Notably, individuals high in both FoMO and JoMO reported better well-being than those high in FoMO but low in JoMO, suggesting that JoMO may help reduce FoMO’s negative impact and support healthier digital experiences. Overall, the study highlights JoMO’s potential as a resilience-enhancing resource in digital life, helping to balance FoMO’s effects and promote well-being. • Four distinct FoMO-JoMO profiles identified via cluster analysis • Low FoMO-High JoMO: lowest addiction, highest well-being • High FoMO-Low JoMO: highest addiction, lowest well-being • JoMO buffers FoMO’s negative effects on well-being • Younger singles more common in high-FoMO profiles