Development and Psychometric Validation of the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) Scale Among Emerging Adults

Abstract

The Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) is a positive psychological state characterized by deliberate disengagement from online activity in favor of autonomy, mindfulness, and self-reflection in an era of perpetual connectivity and digital overload. The purpose of this study was to create and verify a JOMO scale for Indian emerging adults that is both culturally relevant and psychometrically sound. A preliminary pool of items was refined through expert review and pilot testing after being generated using theoretical frameworks and qualitative input. An 11-item unidimensional scale was finalized by psychometric analyses, such as item-total correlations, discriminating power, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The scale demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = .863) and strong model fit (χ² = 37.1, df = 35, p = .372; RMSEA = .024; CFI = .994; TLI = .991). Criterion validity was supported by a significant negative correlation with Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) (r = –.563), and face validity was established through expert judgment. The JOMO scale, scored on a five-point Likert scale from strongly disagree to strongly agree, offers a reliable tool for assessing digital well-being and fostering mindful technology use among Emerging adults in India.