Self-Control and Emotional Distress: Serial Mediation of Fear of Missing Out and Problematic Smartphone Use

Abstract

As society has increasingly digitalised in recent years, the prevalence and intensity of syndromes such as fear of missing out (FoMO) and problematic smartphone use have risen significantly, particularly among young people. The present study aims to examine the role of self-control as a protective factor against emotional distress in university students, and to explore whether FoMO and problematic smartphone use contribute to such distress. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 368 university students recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected via an online survey administered during classroom hours. Participants completed the Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale, the Fear of Missing Out Scale, the 8-Item Brief Self-Control Scale, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21. Serial mediation effects were analysed using Model 6 of Hayes’ PROCESS macro for SPSS. The results indicate that FoMO and problematic smartphone use functioned as multiple mediators in the relationship between self-control and emotional distress. The total indirect effect accounted for 38.58% of the total effect. All mediation paths were statistically significant. These findings underscore the importance of targeting self-control and its underlying mechanisms in intervention efforts. Promoting the development of self-control may lead to a reduction in FoMO and problematic smartphone use, ultimately contributing to improved emotional well-being