The Mediating Role of Social Loneliness Level in the Effect of Fear of Missing Out on Digital Addiction: A Study for Academicians

Aim: To determine the interaction between fear of missing out (FoMO), digital addiction, and social loneliness level, the question “does social loneliness mediate the effect of fear of missing out on digital addiction?” is sought.Method: Within the scope of the research, a survey was conducted with 614 academics working at universities in Türkiye using the quantitative research method. The obtained data were analyzed using AMOS 24 and SPSS 26 programs. Confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation model analysis, correlation analysis, and frequency analysis were performed during the analysis process.Results: It was determined that fear of missing out (FoMO) increased digital addiction and social loneliness. In addition, it was observed that increasing social loneliness levels strengthened digital addiction. During the research process, it was determined that social loneliness played a mediating role in the effect of FoMO on digital addiction.Conclusion: When the literature was examined, no other study was found that examined the interactions of fear of missing out (FoMO), digital addiction, and social loneliness level in the same research model. It can be said that this study is original by verifying a research model that has not been tried before. Based on the findings, practical and theoretical suggestions are given in the conclusion section.