Journal Research and Multidisciplinary (JRM)
Vol 8 No 1 (2025): Journal of Research and Multidisciplinary

Caught in the Scroll: A Psycholinguistic Exploration of FOMO and Viral Language Among Gen Z on Social Media

Saleh, Eliza Farahdiba (Unknown)
Sarjit Singh, AP. Dr. Manvender Kaur A/P (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study examines the psycholinguistic aspects of the FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out, phenomenon in the context of viral language on social media, especially TikTok, Instagram, and X, formerly known as Twitter. Generation Z, born in the digital era, shows strong emotional and behavioural responses to viral content. With a qualitative approach, this study analyses multimodal texts such as captions, hashtags, audio, and visual elements that give rise to a sense of urgency, social inclusion, and emotional resonance. The results show that viral language patterns, when combined with synchronous visual and audio elements and celebrity influence, significantly trigger FOMO-based engagement. In addition, parasocial relationships and cultural validation play an important role in shaping users' behaviour, especially in the K-pop fan community. This study provides psycholinguistic insights into how language on social media is processed, internalised, and replicated by Gen Z audiences. In conclusion, critical awareness is needed regarding the psychological impact of viral discourse and its influence on identity formation and digital well-being

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

jrm

Publisher

Subject

Education Social Sciences Other

Description

Journal of Research and Multidisciplinary (jrm), published by Lembaga Sembilan Tiga Community, is a journal that covers the study of research results and studies from various disciplines. This journal will be a publication for scholars to enrich studies published in journals. Jrm presents quality ...