THE PARADOX OF DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY: EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ATTENTION, FOMO AND SOCIAL MEDIA INTEGRATION IN THE ERA OF AI ALGORITHMS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

With the vigorously flourishing existence of technology and the growing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in social media platforms through algorithmic content filtering and tailored digital content, young adults are seen to be digitally connected with one another, yet experience heightened anxiety and distractibility. As digital platforms, especially social media, are designed to attract users’ attention, usage patterns indicate that habitual and dysregulated use is associated with numerous psychological, social, and physical developmental problems. The Fear of Missing out (FOMO) substantially increases problematic and compulsive usage of social media, while conversely, reducing attention, resultant of which is poor present moment awareness. Prior research indicates that FOMO and AI were associated with heightened anxiety and depressive symptoms, which in turn reduced overall well-being (Chi-Lin Yu 2025). Attention is conceptualized as the capacity to maintain mindful, present moment awareness and intentional focus amid competing internal and external stimuli, according to Brown and Ryan (2003). FOMO is understood as a persistent worry that others are participating in rewarding experiences from which one is absent, driving a compulsive need to remain connected in order to avoid feelings of social exclusion and disconnection from others. Social media integration refers to the extent to which an individual’s social interactions, emotional experiences, and daily activities are intertwined with their use of social media. The current study attempts to investigate the relationship between Attention, FOMO, and Social Media Integration among young adults in the context of AI-driven digital environments. The total sample is 60, equally divided among females and males. To assess these constructs, the study employs three standardized instruments: Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Fear of Missing out Scale (FoMOS), and Social Media Use Integration Scale (SMUIS). Mean and Standard Deviation (SD) were calculated in addition to correlation and t-ratio for finding out the results.