Exploring the Relationship Between Parental Control, Fear of Missing Out and Perceived Autonomy among Female Students

Haya Afrin; Eshwar R

doi:10.63363/aijfr.2025.v06i06.2423

Exploring the Relationship Between Parental Control, Fear of Missing Out and Perceived Autonomy among Female Students

Author(s)	Ms. Haya Afrin, Mr. Eshwar R
Country	India
Abstract	The psychological significance of parental supervision, fear of missing out (FoMO), and perceived autonomy has increased due to the growing integration of digital technology in students' lives, especially among female students in collectivistic societies. During the crucial developmental phases of adolescence and early adulthood, identity formation, the search for autonomy, and social connection become important. Due to safety concerns, gendered expectations, and traditional family values, girls frequently suffer increased parental surveillance in many cultural situations, particularly in India. Even though this kind of management is often assumed as protective, it may inadvertently limit young women's autonomy and raise their level of FOMO as they rely on digital platforms to remain socially engaged. This conceptual paper examines the interconnected influence of parental control, FOMO, and perceived autonomy among female students. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, Parental Control Theory, and FoMO Theory, the paper argues that restrictive and psychologically controlling parenting practices undermine autonomy and belonging needs. Consequently, female students may experience increased FoMO, greater emotional dependence on online interactions, and reduced autonomy across academic, social, and personal domains. Although prior research has examined parenting and FoMO independently, little attention has been given to how these constructs jointly shape perceived autonomy within India's sociocultural landscape. The proposed conceptual model suggests that parental control indirectly influences perceived autonomy through the mediating role of FoMO, with gendered norms and collectivistic cultural expectations serving as potential moderators. This paper contributes to theoretical understanding and highlights implications for parents, educators, and mental health professionals in promoting healthy autonomy while preserving family cohesion.
Keywords	Parental Control, Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), Perceived Autonomy, Female Students, Self-Determination Theory, Social media.
Field	Sociology > Philosophy / Psychology / Religion
Published In	Volume 6, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On	2025-12-08
DOI	https://doi.org/10.63363/aijfr.2025.v06i06.2423
Short DOI	https://doi.org/hbdwf4

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Exploring the Relationship Between Parental Control, Fear of Missing Out and Perceived Autonomy among Female Students

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