Adolescence and online vulnerability: The role of fear of missing out (FoMO): A cross-sectional study during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic

The use of social networking sites (SNSs) has increased significantly in recent years, particularly among adolescents. These platforms have profoundly reshaped the way adolescents interact with family, peers, and strangers. However, SNSs may also expose users to specific vulnerabilities, such as victimisation, with detrimental effects on mental health and psychophysical well-being. This study examined the relationship between age and online vulnerability, with a focus on the mediating role of fear of missing out (FoMO). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 360 adolescents (mean age = 16.95 years; SD age = 1.29 years; age range = 14–19 years; 183 females). Results indicated that FoMO mediated the association between age and online vulnerability, suggesting that younger adolescents may be particularly susceptible to online vulnerability due to their heightened FoMO. These findings underscore the importance of addressing emotional and psychological factors in efforts to reduce online vulnerability. Implications for internet literacy education and preventative strategies are discussed, along with limitations and future research directions.