Digital hoarding behavior of short video platform users: driving mechanisms and complex path analysis based on the C-A-C framework

This study examines the relationship between Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), decision difficulty, and decision postponement among Generation Z males and females. In the current digital era, Gen Z consumers spend much of their time online, where exposure to social media triggers FOMO, leading to emotional stress and uncertainty in making purchasing decisions. The research aims to analyze how FOMO influences decision postponement through decision difficulty and to identify gender-based differences in these relationships. Using a quantitative approach with purposive sampling, data were collected from 873 respondents across both genders and analyzed using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results reveal that FOMO has a significant positive effect on decision difficulty but does not directly influence decision postponement. Instead, FOMO indirectly affects decision postponement through decision difficulty. Furthermore, gender differences emerged: males showed a stronger relationship between FOMO and decision difficulty, while females demonstrated a stronger relationship between decision difficulty and decision postponement. The study contributes to consumer behavior theory by highlighting the mediating role of cognitive factors in emotional influences like FOMO. Practically, it suggests that marketers should design simpler and gender-sensitive digital strategies to reduce decision pressure and enhance confident purchasing decisions among Gen Z consumers.

This study aims to analyze the effect of service quality and Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) on public interest in using digital banks in Indonesia, with trust as a moderating variable. With the increasing digitalization in the banking sector, understanding the factors that drive public interest in digital banking has become crucial, particularly amid concerns over service security and reliability. This study employs a quantitative approach with a survey method involving 464 respondents, both users and non-users of digital banking services across Indonesia. Data analysis was conducted using the Partial Least Square - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) method with the assistance of SmartPLS software version 4.1.0.2. Service quality was measured using indicators such as reliability, accessibility, responsiveness, and service personalization. Meanwhile, FOMO was measured through indicators such as the perception of missing out, social anxiety, drive to adopt new technology, and social media influence. The results show that service quality has no significant effect on digital banking interest. However, FOMO has a significant positive effect on public interest in using these services. Additionally, trust has a significant but negative moderating effect on the relationship between FOMO and usage interest. This means that as trust in digital banking increases, the influence of FOMO on interest tends to decrease. This suggests that users who already trust the security of digital banking make more rational decisions and are less influenced by trends or social pressure. On the other hand, trust does not moderate the relationship between service quality and digital banking interest.

PurposeThis research investigates the complex relationships between individual psychological traits, the fear of missing out (FOMO) and sales promotions in the online sports betting industry. Specifically, it aims to comprehend how sensation-seeking, as a personality trait and FOMO influence the intention to engage in instant online sports betting under various sales promotions like win-bet boosting and lose-bet protecting.Design/methodology/approachAn online survey was conducted with USA adults familiar with major online betting platforms. Participants were assigned to different promotional scenarios, and their responses were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe findings show that sensation-seeking positively affects betting intentions, with FOMO playing a partially mediating role. Sales promotions were found to negatively moderate the relationship between sensation-seeking and betting intention. Notably, the impact of FOMO on betting intention was stronger in the lose-bet protecting scenario than in the win-bet boosting scenario.Originality/valueThis research enriches existing literature by elucidating the nuanced interactions between sensation-seeking, FOMO and sales promotions in the context of online sports betting. The study offers practical insights for developing targeted marketing strategies, particularly for users inclined towards sensation-seeking.

With the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), smart clothing, which has enormous growth potential, has developed to suit consumers' individualized demands in various areas. This paper aims to construct a model that integrates that technology acceptance model (TAM) and functionality-expressiveness-aesthetics (FEA) model to explore the key factors influencing consumers' smart clothing purchase intentions (PIs). Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyze the data, complemented by fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The PLS-SEM results identified that the characteristics of functionality (FUN), expressiveness (EXP), and aesthetics (AES) positively and significantly affect perceived ease of use (PEOU), and only EXP affects perceived usefulness (PU). PU and PEOU positively impact consumers' attitudes (ATTs). Subsequently, PU and consumers' ATTs positively influence PIs. fsQCA revealed the nonlinear and complex interaction effects of the factors influencing consumers' smart clothing purchase behaviors and uncovered five necessary and six sufficient conditions for consumers' PIs. This paper furthers theoretical understanding by integrating the FEA model into the TAM. Additionally, on a practical level, it provides significant insights into consumers' intentions to purchase smart clothing. These findings serve as valuable tools for corporations and designers in strategizing the design and promotion of smart clothing. The results validate theoretical conceptions about smart clothing PIs and provide useful insights and marketing suggestions for smart clothing implementation and development. Moreover, this study is the first to explain smart clothing PIs using symmetric (PLS-SEM) and asymmetric (fsQCA) methods.

This research provides a comprehensive overview of a study focusing on the relationship between financial social comparison, fear of missing out (FOMO), materialism, and online compulsive buying. The topic is relevant given the increasing intensity of social media use among young adults, which fosters psychological dynamics such as a tendency to compare one's financial situation with others and a fear of missing out on social experiences or material possessions. The research method used was a quantitative approach with a survey technique via an electronic questionnaire on Google Forms. The research sample was determined using purposive sampling, which included respondents who are active social media users and have made an online purchase within the last three months. A total of 159 respondents participated in the study. The data was analyzed using the Partial Least Square–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) approach with the help of SmartPLS 3.3 software to test the validity, reliability, and causal relationships between variables. The results showed a positive and significant relationship between financial social comparison and FOMO on materialism, as well as between materialism and online compulsive buying. This means that the higher an individual's tendency to make financial comparisons and experience FOMO, the greater the likelihood they will adopt materialistic values. Ultimately, this materialistic orientation encourages a tendency toward online compulsive buying. These findings affirm the important role of psychological factors in shaping consumer behavior in the digital era. They also contribute to the development of literature on digital consumer behavior and self-control strategies in online shopping

Tourism has become one of Indonesia’s most dynamic sectors, with Bali positioned as a leading destination for marine-based attractions such as Amed, Tanjung Benoa, Menjangan, and Lovina. The rapid growth of social media platforms has transformed destination marketing, where psychological and digital factors increasingly shape tourist behavior. This study investigates the role of Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and parasocial interaction in influencing domestic tourists’ decisions to visit Bali’s marine tourism, with electronic word-of-mouth (E-WOM) examined as a mediating variable. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a framework, FOMO is conceptualized as shaping attitudes, parasocial interaction as influencing subjective norms, and E-WOM as enhancing perceived behavioral control. The research employed a quantitative approach with purposive sampling of 180 respondents who had engaged in marine tourism and actively used social media. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). Results indicate that FOMO, parasocial interaction, and E-WOM each have significant positive effects on visit decisions. FOMO and parasocial interaction also significantly drive E-WOM activity, which partially mediates their influence on visiting decisions. The findings highlight that while psychological drivers and digital communication play a substantial role, external factors such as destination conditions, costs, and family preferences remain influential. This study contributes to tourism literature by clarifying inconsistent findings in prior research and emphasizing the importance of integrating psychological constructs with digital communication strategies. Practically, the results suggest that tourism stakeholders should optimize social media storytelling and encourage authentic E-WOM to strengthen destination appeal.

This study examines the effectiveness of scarcity-based marketing strategies in triggering Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and its impact on online purchasing decisions through TikTok Shop among Generation Z in Palu, Indonesia. This research employed a quantitative methodology with a descriptive-verification strategy. Data were collected from 150 Generation Z respondents who had shopped at TikTok Shop and were exposed to the limited quantity label, using a purposive sampling approach. Data analysis was conducted through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 4.0. The findings indicate that the minimum quantity remains, exerting a beneficial and significant influence on FOMO and purchase decisions. FOMO positively impacts purchase decisions and mediates the correlation between minimum availability and purchase choice. The combination of Only Few Left and FOMO explains 80.5% of the variation in online purchasing decisions. These findings confirm that real-time stock scarcity signals effectively trigger emotional responses and drive impulse buying behavior among Generation Z, thus providing practical implications for optimizing marketing strategies on social commerce platforms.

PurposeThis study aims to propose guidelines for the joint use of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to combine symmetric and asymmetric perspectives in model evaluation, in the hospitality and tourism field.Design/methodology/approachThis study discusses PLS-SEM as a symmetric approach and fsQCA as an asymmetric approach to analyze structural and configurational models. It presents guidelines to conduct an fsQCA based on latent construct scores drawn from PLS-SEM, to assess how configurations of exogenous constructs produce a specific outcome in an endogenous construct.FindingsThis research highlights the advantages of combining PLS-SEM and fsQCA to analyze the causal effects of antecedents (i.e., exogenous constructs) on outcomes (i.e., endogenous constructs). The construct scores extracted from the PLS-SEM analysis of a nomological network of constructs provide accurate input for performing fsQCA to identify the sufficient configurations required to predict the outcome(s). Complementing the assessment of the model’s explanatory and predictive power, the fsQCA generates more fine-grained insights into variable relationships, thereby offering the means to reach better managerial conclusions.Originality/valueThe application of PLS-SEM and fsQCA as separate prediction-oriented methods has increased notably in recent years. However, in the absence of clear guidelines, studies applied the methods inconsistently, giving researchers little direction on how to best apply PLS-SEM and fsQCA in tandem. To address this concern, this study provides guidelines for the joint use of PLS-SEM and fsQCA.

Research on Instagram addiction (IA) has examined a range of psychological and socio-relational factors to explain the addiction, including personality traits, self-esteem, mental health, social approval, and fear of missing out (FoMO), among others. However, no study has integrated both social influence processes (subjective norms, group norms, and social identity) and meaningful relationships (attachment, dyadic, and friendship ties) with FoMO in relation to IA. This study examined the interplay among social influence processes, meaningful relationships, and FoMO on IA, as well as the moderating roles of subjective and group norms on the indirect effect of anxious attachment on IA via FoMO. The sample consisted of 180 Italian young adults (aged 18-30) who completed validated questionnaires on IA, social influence, relationships, and FoMO after providing consent. Social media use was also explored through an open-ended question. Results indicate that FoMO, social and group norms, and group identification significantly contribute to IA. Anxious attachment had a significant indirect effect on IA via FoMO, with subjective and group norms moderating this association. Qualitative analysis of open-ended responses enriched the understanding of young adults' social media use. These findings highlight the importance of social influence, relationships, and FoMO in young adults' Instagram engagement and suggest directions for addressing problematic use in this group.

Research in international business and management (IM) is highly complex, contextual, and spans various subfields and related theoretical lenses. These characteristics pose research challenges that require utilizing sophisticated research designs and methodologies. This paper and our focused issue on ‘The use of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and complementary methods in IM research’ further clarify whether and how researchers using PLS-SEM can address (some of) the challenges in IM research. We explain how researchers can benefit from the (advanced) capabilities that PLS-SEM offers; either as a stand-alone method or in triangulation efforts that leverage complementary approaches. In addition, we review the IM literature for PLS-SEM applications and evaluate whether and how researchers are already using these approaches. We identify some room for improvement when it comes to the application of both more advanced PLS-SEM capabilities and the triangulation of PLS-SEM with qualitative data analyses, and techniques such as fuzzy set qualitative comparative analyses and necessary condition analyses. For better guidance, we refer to PLS-SEM application examples in which the methodological advances are used.

This study investigates the interplay between scarcity cues, individual motivations, and consumer behavior in the context of collectible markets, focusing on Popmart’s Labubu series. Leveraging Social Comparison Theory, we explore how self-expressive motivation (SEM) and self-presentational motivation (SPM) influence the relationship between scarcity cues and Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), and how FoMO subsequently affects consumers’ willingness to pay for premium products. A sample of 442 Labubu collectors participated in the study, providing insights into the psychological and behavioral drivers of purchasing decisions. Results from Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) indicate that scarcity cues significantly increase FoMO, which in turn has a strong positive impact on willingness to pay. SEM and SPM were found to moderate the effect of scarcity cues on FoMO, with SEM reducing and SPM amplifying this relationship. These findings highlight the importance of understanding consumer motivations and social comparison processes in developing effective scarcity-based marketing strategies. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed for brands operating in limited-edition markets.

Purpose In the modern financial landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is gaining prominence, offering significant economic advantages. This research paper aims to investigate the impact of Behavioural Biases (BB) such as Overconfidence Bias (OCB), Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), Herding Bias (HB) and Regret Aversion Bias (RAB) on Investment Decision-Making (IDM). Additionally, it explores how the AI-led Adoption of Digital Advisory Services (ADAS) moderates these biases among Gen Z investors in India. Design/methodology/approach The study utilized a convenience sampling method, gathering 457 responses from Gen Z investors in India through an online survey questionnaire. The data was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Findings The results confirm a significant relationship between OCB, FOMO, HB and RAB on IDM. The study also found that ADAS significantly moderated the relationship between FOMO and IDM, as well as between HB and IDM. However, the moderation effect of ADAS was not supported for the relationships between OCB and IDM, and RAB and IDM. Practical implications This research offers valuable insights for academics, individual investors, fintech companies and policymakers. It highlights how behavioural biases affect IDM and underscores the importance of AI-enabled digital services in helping Gen Z investors recognize and manage these biases. Policymakers can use these insights to establish standards for AI use, ensuring regulatory compliance and promoting ethical conduct in AI-driven investment decisions. Originality/value The novelty of this study lies in its conceptual approach, particularly in examining the moderation role of ADAS in addressing behavioural biases among Gen Z investors.

Purpose With the pandemic reshaping healthcare delivery, telemedicine has emerged as a vital solution for overcoming access barriers, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Hence, this study explores the key drivers behind the sustained use of telemedicine services in low-income countries during the post-pandemic period. Design/methodology/approach Using a quantitative research approach and purposive sampling technique, 273 valid responses were gathered from participants in Bangladesh. A comparative analysis utilizing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) were conducted to ensure greater accuracy. Findings The PLS-SEM analysis revealed that expectation confirmation and perceived ease of use positively influence satisfaction. Similarly, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use directly impact Attitude toward telemedicine services. However, perceived usefulness and perceived security were not significantly associated with satisfaction and attitude toward telemedicine services, respectively. The findings highlight that user satisfaction drives continuance use intention for telemedicine services, but only when it also cultivates a positive attitude toward telemedicine services. While the PLS-SEM findings indicate that perceived usefulness has no significant relationship with satisfaction and perceived security is not significantly associated with attitude toward telemedicine services, the fsQCA results offer a different perspective. fsQCA reveals that perceived usefulness retains a significant association with satisfaction and that perceived security, regardless of whether its effect is high or low, is equally effective in contributing to the intention for continuous telemedicine use. These findings underscore fsQCA’s ability to provide deeper insights into the complex causal relationships among the antecedents. Practical implications The findings provide valuable insights for hospitals, doctors and telemedicine providers on retaining existing users. Additionally, governments can leverage this information to address healthcare disparities between urban and rural areas. The study also identifies strategies to reduce costs and improve the efficiency of healthcare services. Originality/value This study advances telemedicine research by employing the extended technology continuance theory (ETCT) alongside a hybrid analytical approach that integrates PLS-SEM and fsQCA. It highlights that telemedicine organizations can boost patient confidence and encourage continued use by enhancing satisfaction and cultivating a positive user attitude. The innovative use of ETCT and the combined methodologies provide a comprehensive analysis, offering actionable strategies to retain telemedicine users in low-income countries during the post-pandemic period.

Despite the widespread use of smartphones, not all users develop problematic use. Understanding the pathways that lead from healthy to Problematic Smartphone Use (PSU) is essential for uncovering underlying mechanisms and informing effective prevention strategies. Building on theoretical models of PSU, this study explores a maladaptive regulatory-focused pathway linking Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU) to PSU through Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) as a mediator. Although previous research has linked IU, FoMO, and PSU in pairs, few studies have examined these constructs simultaneously within a unified explanatory framework. By integrating them into a theoretically grounded mediation model, this study offers a more comprehensive understanding of psychological mechanisms that may underlie PSU. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey with 343 U.S. undergraduate students, recruited through a university research pool in exchange for course credit. Participants completed self-report measures of IU, FoMO, and PSU. Using structural equation modeling, we examined a mediation model incorporating latent variables for IU, FoMO, and PSU, assessing both direct and indirect effects of IU on PSU through FoMO. Results indicated that IU showed a positive association with FoMO, which was further associated with elevated PSU levels. The direct association between IU and PSU was non-significant. These findings support theoretical models positing that personal predispositions, such as IU, contribute to PSU through Internet-related cognitive biases like FoMO. Preventive initiatives should focus on raising awareness about the adverse effects of IU and FoMO on PSU and promoting strategies to effectively manage IU and FoMO, potentially reducing the risk of PSU.

This study explores the phenomenon of impulsive buying among Generation Z Shopee users in Indonesia, focusing on the influence of psychological and social factors. A quantitative, causal research design was employed, with data collected from 300 respondents through an online survey. The analysis utilized Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS 4 to evaluate both the measurement and structural models, ensuring the validity and reliability of the instruments. The findings reveal that low self-control, fear of missing out (FOMO), and materialism significantly influence impulsive buying behavior. Social network impulsiveness and positive attitudes toward targeted advertising served as important mediators. Hedonic motivation, online reviews, and perceived price value also had substantial effects, although FOMO and perceived price value were not directly significant. Digital media plays a crucial role in shaping impulsive buying behavior, with internal psychological factors amplifying these effects through social media platforms and personalized advertisements. This research offers valuable insights for marketers targeting Generation Z consumers, emphasizing the need for responsible advertising that accounts for psychological triggers. It also underscores the importance of digital literacy and emotional regulation in consumer decision-making.