The Influence of Social Media Information Characteristics on FoMO and Tourism Behavioral Intentions

초록

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to investigate how the characteristics of social media information influence tourists’ Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and their subsequent tourism behavioral intentions. Design/methodology/approach –Grounded in social comparison theory, this research develops and empirically tests a structural model that links key characteristics of social media information—namely reliability, interactivity, and interest—to FoMO dimensions, including the desire for belonging, desire for recognition, and anxiety about exclusion. A large-scale online survey of 1,217 respondents was conducted, and the data were analyzed using structural equation modeling techniques. Findings – The results indicate that the perceived reliability and interest level of social media information negatively affect individuals’ desire for belonging and recognition, whereas interactivity exerts a positive influence on these dimensions. Additionally, a heightened desire for belonging and recognition significantly increases anxiety about social exclusion, which subsequently strengthens tourism behavioral intentions. Research implications or Originality – This study provides meaningful implications for tourism marketers, social media platform developers, and policymakers by clarifying how social media information characteristics can trigger FoMO and influence tourism-related decision-making. The findings highlight the importance of promoting mindful and balanced social media use to mitigate adverse psychological effects, while strategically leveraging interactivity to encourage positive tourism engagement.

키워드