Online social comparison and fear of missing out (FOMO) in early motherhood: Consumption, influence, and coping
Öz
This study examines how early-stage mothers engage with social networking sites (SNS) to navigate their roles as caregivers and consumers, focusing on the impact of social comparison and fear of missing out (FOMO) on their consumption behaviors and self-perception. By integrating the concepts of FOMO, motherhood identity, and digital socialization, the research addresses gaps in the literature on consumer behavior and digital identity. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The findings show that SNS engagement intensifies FOMO, influencing mothers' consumption choices, desires, and coping strategies in response to psychosocial challenges. The study highlights SNS's dual role: it provides support and efficiency while also presenting challenges, such as misinformation and unrealistic portrayals. While SNS facilitates community-building and product discovery, excessive use exacerbates FOMO, leading mothers to adopt strategies for resilience and well-being in a digital age. This research contributes to understanding digital motherhood by showing how SNS both empowers and constrains early-stage mothers, shaping their consumption choices and self-perceptions. It reveals that while SNS can offer support and efficiency, it also reinforces unattainable ideals, fueling anxiety and self-doubt.
Anahtar Kelimeler
Kaynakça
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Ayrıntılar
Birincil Dil
İngilizce
Konular
Dijital Pazarlama, Tüketici Davranışı
Bölüm
Araştırma Makalesi
Yazarlar
Ezgi Kabasakal
*
0000-0001-8204-1970
Türkiye
Yayımlanma Tarihi
25 Haziran 2026
Gönderilme Tarihi
19 Nisan 2025
Kabul Tarihi
16 Şubat 2026
Yayımlandığı Sayı
Yıl 2026 Cilt: 12 Sayı: 2