Factor structure and psychometric properties of the Italian version of the fear of missing out scale in emerging adults and adolescents. (March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Casale, Silvia; Fioravanti, Giulia
• Is Part Of: Addictive behaviors. Volume 102(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-03
• Subjects: Fear of missing out -- Factor structure -- Invariance -- Psychometric properties; Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Alcoholism -- Periodicals; Drug addiction -- Periodicals; Nicotine addiction -- Periodicals; Smoking -- Periodicals; Gambling -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 362.29
• DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.106179
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4603

Abstract

Highlights: The Italian version of the Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMOs) demonstrates good psychometric properties. A two-factor solution was found that explained 50.66% of the total variance. The CFA confirmed the two-factor solution for the FoMOs with adequate fits. Gender invariance and age invariance supported the validity of the Italian version of FoMOs. Covergent validity was also demonstrated. Abstract: Fear of missing out (FoMO) has been linked to problematic social media use and negative health outcomes among adolescents and emerging adults. The 10-item Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMO) is the most used instrument to measure FoMO levels and, for this reason, it seems relevant to evaluate its psychometric properties across various cultures. In Study 1, exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the scale items using a sample of 436 college students [F = 51.1%; M (SD) = 22.13 (2.78) years old]. In Study 2, confirmatory factor analysis was conducted in order to determine whether the results of Study 1 could be confirmed with another sample of college students [n = 239; F = 61.1%; M (SD) = 23.02(2.64) years old] and adolescents [n = 178; M = 57.3%; M (SD) = 16.2 (1.48) years old]. The model was also tested for measurement invariance by sex and age (collegiate versus high school students). Full scalar invariance of the FoMO across sex and age was supported and adequate internal consistency was found. Convergent validity was also demonstrated. As a result, we concluded that the FoMO might be used in clinical settings as a means of screening people who show potentially high behavioral engagement with social media. The FoMO can also help identify specific maladaptive cognitions and ruminative thoughts that maintain FoMO.