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Article . 2025 . Peer-reviewed
Data sources: Crossref
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The Rhetoric of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) in Digital Marketing

Authors: Sharad Acharya;

The Rhetoric of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) in Digital Marketing

Abstract

In the current digital era, the swift expansion of social media platforms, online shopping, and digital advertising has transformed how businesses engage with consumers. One of the most potent psychological tactics in this environment is Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). This study explores the Rhetoric of Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) in digital marketing, analysing its impact on consumer decision-making, the psychological mechanisms it employs, and the ethical concerns it raises. Grounded in social comparison and loss aversion theories, this research examines how marketers use FOMO-driven strategies such as scarcity, urgency, and social pressure to influence consumer behavior. Through case studies, the study highlights how FOMO tactics tap into deep-seated human fears of exclusion and loss, often leading to impulsive purchasing decisions. However, while effective, these strategies pose ethical challenges, including increased consumer anxiety, financial strain, and environmental consequences due to overconsumption. The study argues for greater transparency and ethical responsibility in digital marketing practices to balance persuasion with consumer well-being.

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    This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
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Powered by OpenAIRE graph
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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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