A Structural Equation Model of Phubbing Based on Internet Addiction and Fear of Missing Out: Mediating Roles of Smartphone Addiction and Academic Boredom in Generation Z Students

Abstract

Background: Given the significant role of phubbing in the quality of life of Generation Z, it is necessary to consider the role of related variables in its occurrence. Objectives: This research aimed to model the structural equations of the relationships between Internet addiction and fear of missing out, with the mediating effect of smartphone addiction and academic boredom, on phubbing in Generation Z. Methods: This correlational study was conducted using structural equation modeling. The statistical population consisted of all Generation Z students at Islamic Azad University, Tehran branches, during the second semester of the academic year 2023 - 2024, of whom 556 were selected through cluster sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS.29 and AMOS.24 software. Results: Data analysis showed that all fit indices were appropriate after the corrections and revealed a favorable fit of the model at the significance level. In examining direct paths, the total path coefficient between Internet addiction and fear of missing out with phubbing was positive and significant. In addition, the path coefficient between smartphone addiction and academic boredom with phubbing was positive and significant. In examining indirect paths, the effect between Internet addiction and phubbing, and also fear of missing out and phubbing through smartphone addiction and academic boredom, was positive and significant. Conclusions: The findings suggest that technology-based behaviors and their impact on mental health should be considered in Generation Z. Those involved in educational and training affairs and psychologists should increase their awareness of these effects.