How to help tech-savvy kids deal with social media fomo
WHAT IS FOMO?
According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, FOMO refers to the fear of missing out. It is a feeling of worrying that something exciting is happening somewhere else.
HOW DOES FOMO AFFECT TEENAGERS?
According to Amy Summerville, a professor of psychology at Miami University in Ohio, FOMO is ‘an extension of larger issues of inclusion and social standing.’ She explains that after our basic needs for water, food and shelter are met, we naturally have the need to be included. If that need is not met, it could lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. It doesn’t help that social media gives us a look into what our nearest and dearest are doing at any point in time – and if they did not include us, we may feel left out.
As a parent, here are a few ways you could help your child avoid FOMO.
1. SCHEDULE TECHNOLOGY BREAKS
Setting boundaries around social media may result in some pushback from your children. Think carefully about how to approach this situation and be creative about how you implement technology breaks. Don’t just ‘forbid’ social media during this time, rather plan a fun activity so they don’t misinterpret these breaks as a punishment. Suggest reading, taking a walk or even playing a card game. Make ‘unplugging’ a positive experience so that your child wants to take more social media breaks.
2. ENCOURAGE MINDFUL FOLLOWING ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Do you know who your children are following online? Stay informed about who they are following and the content they’re consuming. The type of content they’re exposed to can negatively affect their thoughts and behaviour. Encourage your child to follow accounts that are positive, uplifting, and inspiring. Yes, there are terrible things on social media, but we shouldn’t forget all the positive and helpful content that’s out there.
3. TURN FOMO INTO JOMO
What is JOMO? Flip it around and turn FOMO into the joy of missing out. Remind your children that not all they see on social media is reality. Encourage them to think differently about what they like and the events that would make them happy. Teach them that it’s okay to say ‘no’ and that they may find joy and relief by doing something they like instead.
4. ENCOURAGE JOURNALLING
It can be challenging for your child to take breaks from social media as it’s a habit they’ve developed. If you can see that spending time on social media makes them anxious, suggest that they keep a journal and write down all the things that make them happy instead. This will provide an opportunity to change the narrative and allow for positive self-talk, rather than focusing on negative thoughts.
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