The Role of Emotional Intelligence and Social Intelligence in Mitigating Fear of Missing Out among College Students

Abstract

The current study investigated the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI), social intelligence (SI), and fear of missing out (FoMO) among college students, with a focus on their impact on digital stress. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, with data collected from 130 students aged 18–28 using standardized tools: the Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMOs), Tromsø Social Intelligence Scale (TSIS), and Trait Meta- Mood Scale (TMMS). Results indicated a significant negative correlation between SI and FoMO (r = -.29, p = .001), suggesting that higher social intelligence reduces vulnerability to FoMO. Conversely, EI showed no significant association with FoMO (r = .04, p = .652) but was positively correlated with SI (r = .27, p = .002). Regression analysis identified social awareness as a key predictor of lower FoMO, while heightened attention to emotions was linked to higher FoMO. No gender differences were observed in FoMO, EI, or SI. These findings highlight the protective role of SI against FoMO and underscore the importance of interventions targeting social skills and mindfulness to mitigate digital stress. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, suggesting the need for future longitudinal and culturally diverse research.