The Mediating Role of Procrastination in the Relationship between Fear of Missing Out and Internet Addiction in University Students

Abdullah Manap, Amelia Rizzo, Abdullah Yıldırmaz, Ümit Dilekçi and Murat Yıldırım ()
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Abdullah Manap: Department of Psychology, Batman University, Batman 72000, Türkiye
Amelia Rizzo: Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
Abdullah Yıldırmaz: Department of Public Relations, Batman University, Batman 72000, Türkiye
Ümit Dilekçi: Department of Child Development, Batman University, Batman 72000, Türkiye
Murat Yıldırım: Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science and Letters, Agri Ibrahim Cecen University, Ağrı 04100, Türkiye

IJERPH, 2023, vol. 21, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: This study aims to examine the potential mediating role of procrastination in the relationship between fear of missing out and internet addiction. Employing a cross-sectional research design, this study utilized a paper–pencil form to collect data from 315 students (65.4% undergraduate and 66.3% females) between 18 and 32 (Mage = 22.43; SD = 3.81) studying at a state university in Türkiye. Data were collected through the convenience sampling method. The study was designed as a survey model. This design was tested via mediation analysis. The participants completed self-report assessments using the Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMOs), General Procrastination Scale (GPS-9), and Young Internet Addiction Scale (short form). The findings showed that FoMO had a significant positive direct effect on both procrastination ( R 2 = 0.13) and internet addiction ( R 2 = 0.33). Procrastination also had a significant positive direct effect on internet addiction ( R 2 = 0.34). Additionally, procrastination mediated the relationship between the fear of missing out and internet addiction ( β = 0.156, p < 0.001). These findings not only extend the scope of existing research but also hold practical implications for the development of sustainable interventions. It is believed that the findings will contribute to the consideration of procrastination when preparing psychoeducation or group guidance programs for internet addiction. These interventions can effectively address the process through which fear of missing out leads to internet addiction by considering the significant role of procrastination in students. Findings typically suggest that procrastination behavior is a key factor in explaining the association between FoMO and internet addiction.

Keywords: fear of missing out; internet addiction; procrastination; university students (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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