FEAR OF BETTER OPTIONS AND RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION AMONG EMERGING ADULTS: A QUALITATIVE THEMATIC ANALYSIS

Publication Details

Publication Date

10/08/2026

Volume / Issue

Vol 1, Issue 3 (2026)

Article No.

033

Journal

British Journal of Contemporary Research

DOI

https://doi.org/10.67693/BJCR-8Z8SII74

Received

25 Jul 2026

Views

28

Downloads

11

Abstract

Digital technologies have transformed romantic relationships by increasing exposure to alternative partners through social media and dating applications, giving rise to the Fear of Better Options (FOBO). Despite growing interest in related concepts such as social comparison and fear of missing out, limited qualitative research has examined FOBO and its influence on relationship satisfaction. This study explored the lived experiences of 16 emerging adults (18–26 years) using semi-structured interviews, with data analysed through Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis. Three major themes emerged: the emergence and experience of FOBO, factors influencing FOBO, and its impact on relationship satisfaction and well-being. Participants identified social comparison, social media exposure, unmet emotional needs, and perceived alternatives as key contributors to FOBO. Although FOBO often reduced relationship satisfaction and caused emotional distress, adaptive coping strategies, including open communication, realistic expectations, and cognitive reframing, helped maintain healthy relationships. The findings highlight FOBO as a significant psychological phenomenon in contemporary romantic relationships.

License

This article is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License . Free to read, share, and adapt with attribution.