Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO) Activities In The Use Of Tiktok Social Media (Qualitative Descriptive Study In Students Of SMA Negeri 4 Medan)

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Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) Activities in the Use of Tiktok Social Media: A Qualitative Descriptive Study in Students of SMA Negeri 4 Medan

Introduction

In the current digital era, social media has become an integral part of everyday life, especially among teenagers. The rise of platforms like Tiktok has revolutionized the way users share creative content, with various themes and styles. However, this increased connectivity has also led to a phenomenon known as the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), where individuals feel anxious about missing important information or events. This study aims to explore the FOMO activities conducted by students of SMA Negeri 4 Medan through the Tiktok platform.

Theoretical Background

The theory of media dependence is used in this study, which consists of three dimensions: social systems, audiences, and media systems. This theory helps to understand how individuals become dependent on social media, especially in the context of FOMO. The media dependence theory suggests that individuals become dependent on social media to get information, social interaction, and recognition. This dependency can lead to a range of negative consequences, including anxiety, depression, and decreased self-esteem.

Methodology

This study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Three informants who are students of SMA Negeri 4 Medan were involved in this study. The data collection methods include interviews, observations, and literature studies. The data collected is analyzed using data condensation techniques, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The triangulation method is used to test the validity of the data.

Results

The results of this study show that FOMO activities carried out by Medan 4 High School students have a significant impact. Many students feel depressed to create and upload Tiktok content that matches the latest trends. This is caused by the desire to remain connected and noted on the social media platform. Students feel that if they do not upload content that is trending, they will miss information and opportunities to interact with their friends.

Discussion

The FOMO phenomenon reflects how social media can affect adolescent behavior and psychology. In this context, students prefer to be actively involved in making content to maintain their social image. They feel the pressure to constantly follow the development of trends and try to be part of a larger digital community. This raises a dilemma, where students are trapped between the desire to have fun and demands to remain relevant in the eyes of their friends.

From the point of view of the dependent theory media, it can be seen that students of SMA Negeri 4 Medan are in a situation where they are very dependent on social media, especially Tiktok, to get information and social interaction. This dependency is not only limited to entertainment search, but also includes the need to get recognition and validation from their colleagues.

Conclusion

This research highlights the importance of understanding the influence of social media on adolescent behavior, especially in the context of FOMO. With the increasing dependence on platforms such as Tiktok, there is a need to educate students about the emotional and social impacts of their social media activities. This can help them in making wiser decisions and not trapped in pressure to always follow the trend.

Implications

The findings of this study have several implications for educators, parents, and policymakers. Firstly, it highlights the need for educators to incorporate media literacy into their curriculum, to help students understand the impact of social media on their behavior and psychology. Secondly, parents need to be aware of the potential risks of social media and monitor their children's online activities. Finally, policymakers need to develop strategies to mitigate the negative effects of social media on adolescent behavior.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  1. Media literacy education: Educators should incorporate media literacy into their curriculum to help students understand the impact of social media on their behavior and psychology.
  2. Parental monitoring: Parents need to be aware of the potential risks of social media and monitor their children's online activities.
  3. Policymaker intervention: Policymakers need to develop strategies to mitigate the negative effects of social media on adolescent behavior.
  4. Social media awareness: Students need to be aware of the potential risks of social media and take steps to mitigate them.

Limitations

This study has several limitations. Firstly, the sample size is small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Secondly, the study only focuses on students of SMA Negeri 4 Medan, which may not be representative of all students. Finally, the study only explores the FOMO phenomenon in the context of Tiktok, which may not be representative of other social media platforms.

Future Research Directions

Future research should explore the FOMO phenomenon in other social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook. Additionally, future research should investigate the impact of social media on adolescent behavior and psychology in different cultural contexts. Finally, future research should explore the effectiveness of media literacy education in mitigating the negative effects of social media on adolescent behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) Activities in the Use of Tiktok Social Media

Q: What is Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)?

A: Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is a phenomenon where individuals feel anxious about missing important information or events, often due to the constant stream of updates on social media platforms like Tiktok.

Q: What is the main cause of FOMO in the context of Tiktok?

A: The main cause of FOMO in the context of Tiktok is the desire to remain connected and noted on the social media platform. Students feel that if they do not upload content that is trending, they will miss information and opportunities to interact with their friends.

Q: How does FOMO affect adolescent behavior and psychology?

A: FOMO can lead to a range of negative consequences, including anxiety, depression, and decreased self-esteem. Students may feel pressured to constantly follow the development of trends and try to be part of a larger digital community.

Q: What is the role of social media in perpetuating FOMO?

A: Social media platforms like Tiktok create an environment where users feel the need to constantly check and update their accounts. This can lead to a sense of FOMO, as users feel anxious about missing out on important information or events.

Q: How can educators help mitigate the negative effects of FOMO on adolescent behavior and psychology?

A: Educators can help mitigate the negative effects of FOMO by incorporating media literacy into their curriculum. This can help students understand the impact of social media on their behavior and psychology, and make wiser decisions about their online activities.

Q: What can parents do to help their children manage FOMO?

A: Parents can help their children manage FOMO by monitoring their online activities, setting limits on screen time, and encouraging them to engage in offline activities. Parents can also model healthy social media behavior themselves.

Q: What are some strategies for mitigating the negative effects of FOMO on adolescent behavior and psychology?

A: Some strategies for mitigating the negative effects of FOMO include:

  • Setting boundaries around social media use
  • Encouraging offline activities and hobbies
  • Practicing self-care and stress management techniques
  • Seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals

Q: Can FOMO be prevented?

A: While it may not be possible to completely prevent FOMO, there are steps that individuals can take to mitigate its negative effects. By being aware of the potential risks of social media and taking steps to manage their online activities, individuals can reduce their risk of experiencing FOMO.

Q: What are some potential long-term consequences of FOMO?

A: Some potential long-term consequences of FOMO include:

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Decreased self-esteem
  • Social isolation
  • Decreased productivity and academic performance

Q: How can individuals seek help if they are experiencing FOMO?

A: Individuals who are experiencing FOMO can seek help from friends, family, or mental health professionals. They can also reach out to online resources and support groups for help managing their social media use and mitigating the negative effects of FOMO.