The Role of TikTok Algorithm in Shaping FOMO Phenomenon among Generation Z

Abstract

The phenomenon of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) represents one of the psychological impacts that occurs in the era of social media, especially among Generation Z. The TikTok platform, with its algorithm system that focuses on personalization and user interaction, plays an important role in shaping and strengthening this phenomenon. This study aims to analyze the role of the TikTok’s algorithm in forming the FoMO phenomenon among Generation Z using media effects theory as a scientific basis. The research employs a descriptive qualitative through content analysis, focusing on viral TikTok content throughout the year 2025 that potentially triggers FoMO and the algorithmic influence on user psychology. The results of the analysis show that the TikTok algorithm works continuously to regulate the distribution of content based on user tastes and interactions, which in turn creates dependency. This process strengthens the psychological drive to stay updated with trends, heightens the fear of missing out, and leads to emotional consequences such as anxiety, stress, and reduced self-esteem. Furthermore, the For You Page (FYP) feature, which prioritizes popular content, accelerates the dissemination of viral trends and intensifies the FoMO effect among Generation Z. This process reinforces the psychological urge to keep up with trends, heightens the fear of missing out, and leads to emotional consequences such as anxiety, stress, and decreased self-esteem. Additionally, the FYP feature, which is based on content popularity, accelerates the dissemination of viral trends and intensifies the FoMO effect among Generation Z. Thus, this study explains that the TikTok algorithm plays an important role in creating and reinforcing the FoMO phenomenon through a content recommendation mechanism that is dependent and interaction-based, thereby impacting the social and psychological behavior of the younger generation in the digital era.