In an era where children grow up surrounded by screens, it’s not just games and videos that capture their attention it’s also the fear of missing out, or FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Referring to the report released by pafikutaikab.org psychologists warn that FOMO, once a term used to describe adult anxiety over social media, is now increasingly affecting children and teenagers.
The Rise of FOMO in the Digital Generation
From trending TikTok dances to viral gaming achievements, social media constantly showcases what others are doing — often filtered to look perfect. For many children, seeing friends post about exciting events or new gadgets can create a sense of exclusion or inadequacy.
According to a 2024 report by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, over 70% of teenagers admit feeling anxious or left out after scrolling through social media. “Children are in a developmental stage where belonging matters deeply,” explains Dr. Priya Anand, a child psychiatrist at the University of Toronto. “When their peers appear to be having more fun or achieving more, it triggers insecurity and social comparison.”
This digital pressure can lead to stress, low self-esteem, and even symptoms of depression, especially when children start measuring their self-worth by likes and comments.
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How FOMO Impacts Mental Health
FOMO activates the same reward centers in the brain associated with addiction. Each notification or post can release dopamine the brain’s “pleasure chemical.” Over time, children may develop a cycle of compulsive checking, fearing they might miss something important if they log off.
“This constant need for connection actually disconnects them from real life,” says Dr. Anand. “They struggle to be present, find it hard to focus, and may feel anxious even during downtime.”
What Parents Can Do to Help
1. Talk About What They See Online
Encourage open discussions about social media. Ask questions like, “How does that post make you feel?” or “Do you think everything online shows real life?” This helps children develop critical thinking about online content and understand that social media often shows highlights, not reality.
2. Set Digital Boundaries
Experts recommend setting “screen-free zones” — such as during family meals or before bedtime — to help children reconnect with offline experiences. Encourage outdoor activities, reading, or creative hobbies that build confidence beyond the digital world.
3. Model Healthy Behavior
Children imitate their parents’ habits. When parents constantly check their phones or post online, kids learn that constant connectivity is normal. Show that it’s okay to disconnect — leave your phone aside during family time and prioritize face-to-face conversations.
4. Validate Their Feelings
When children express jealousy or sadness after seeing posts, avoid dismissing their emotions. Instead, acknowledge them: “I understand you feel left out — that’s normal.” Then, help them focus on gratitude and what they enjoy in real life.
5. Encourage Real Connections
Building friendships offline can protect children from FOMO. Playdates, team sports, and community activities help them experience joy and belonging in real-world settings.
Teaching Digital Balance
Ultimately, managing FOMO is not about banning social media — it’s about teaching balance and self-awareness.
As Dr. Anand puts it, “When children learn to appreciate their own experiences without constant comparison, they grow more confident, grounded, and emotionally resilient — both online and offline.”
Source: https://pafikutaikab.org/
