Ultimacomm: Jurnal Ilmu Komunikasi
Vol 17 No 2 (2025): Regular Issue

FoMO and Social Media: Constructing Tennis as a Middle-Class Lifestyle Trend in Jakarta

Rosalina, Indah Fajar (Unknown)
Kristanti Agustina (Unknown)
Ningsih, Suswinda (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study examines the phenomenon of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) on social media and its influence on the rise of tennis as a lifestyle trend among Jakarta’s middle class. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were gathered through in-depth interviews, observation, and document analysis involving eight participants. The findings reveal that platforms like Instagram and TikTok shape tennis not only as a recreational activity but also as a symbol of status, health, and social identity. FoMO drives participation by creating pressure to keep up with curated digital trends. Urban middle-class individuals engage in tennis to maintain visibility, relevance, and a cohesive lifestyle image online. However, this trend is marked by class distinctions: while upper-middle-class individuals actively participate, those from lower-middle backgrounds often face symbolic exclusion due to the high costs of equipment, court access, and stylish sportswear. The study identifies two main FoMO motivations—status-driven and wellness-oriented—both amplified by social media’s visual culture. Emerging strategies to reduce FoMO include media literacy, and a return to authentic offline experiences. By applying Veblen’s theory of conspicuous consumption and Baudrillard’s sign-value, this research contributes to understanding the intersections of lifestyle, identity, and social class in Jakarta’s digital urban culture.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

FIKOM

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

Jurnal Ilmu Komunikasi diterbitkan dua kali setahun sebagai media informasi karya ilmiah untuk bidang kajian Ilmu Komunikasi dan jurnalistik di ...