The Effect of Interpersonal Sensitivity and Fear of Missing Out on Social Anxiety among Adolescent Social Media Users

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the predictive role of interpersonal sensitivity and fear of missing out in social anxiety among adolescent social media users A descriptive–correlational design was employed using a survey method. The statistical population consisted of adolescents aged 13–18 years living in District 7 of Tehran, from whom 256 valid questionnaires were analyzed out of an initial sample of 384 participants. Data were collected using the Interpersonal Sensitivity Scale, the Fear of Missing Out Scale, and the Social Anxiety Questionnaire. Multiple regression analysis was conducted using SPSS software. The results of multiple regression analysis indicated that interpersonal sensitivity (β = 0.41, p < 0.001) and fear of missing out (β = 0.36, p < 0.001) were both significant positive predictors of social anxiety. Together, these variables explained 47% of the variance in social anxiety among adolescents (R² = 0.47), indicating a strong predictive model. The findings suggest that heightened sensitivity to social evaluation and concerns about missing online interactions substantially contribute to social anxiety in adolescents, underscoring the importance of targeted psychological and educational interventions in the digital context.