Advisers

Michael L. Bersamin, LPT

Discipline

Psychology

Abstract

This study examined the influence of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) on career anxiety among graduating Information Technology (IT) students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. It determined the levels of FoMO (private and social factors) and career anxiety (career direction and purpose, uncertainty and triggers, and stress), and analyzed the relationship between FoMO and career anxiety in relation to the respondents’ demographic profiles. A descriptive correlational research design was employed, utilizing purposive sampling to select 154 graduating fourth-year IT students who were identified as experiencing Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) during the academic year 2025–2026. Data were collected through a survey questionnaire incorporating the Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) Scale and the Career Uncertainty and Anxiety Questionnaire (CUAQ). Frequency, percentage, weighted mean, standard deviation, and Spearman’s rank correlation were used for data analysis. Most respondents were aged 20–22 years (67%), and the majority were male (62%). The findings showed moderate to high levels of FoMO (M = 3.84) and career anxiety (M = 3.76). A statistically significant moderate positive relationship was found between FoMO and career anxiety (Rs = 0.32, p < 0.001). Higher FoMO levels were associated with greater career uncertainty, lack of direction, and increased stress. The study concluded that FoMO was a significant psychological factor contributing to heightened career anxiety among graduating IT students. The findings underscored the need for integrated academic, career, and mental health interventions to support students’ transition from education to employment.

Keywords

Digital Well-Being, Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), Career Anxiety, Graduating IT Students