Facebook has been around for 20 years today... reason to take a moment to think about social media. Because the world has changed completely in 20 years with the advent of 'socials'. I certainly would never have asked you this question 20 years ago: " Have you ever wondered why you keep scrolling endlessly through your social media feeds, even when you actually have other things to do?"
It's no coincidence – social media platforms are designed to keep us hooked and coming back. In this article you will find out the facts why social media is so addictive. You will also receive three viewing tips if you want to delve deeper.
The 6 most important reasons why social media is so addictive
1 - Dopamine and the power of reward
Every 'like' and comment on social media feels like a small victory. That's because these interactions release dopamine in our brains, a chemical that gives us a feeling of satisfaction and pleasure. This feel-good factor is what continues to draw us to these platforms in search of our next like boost.
2 - FOMO: Imagine missing out!
Social media keeps us constantly informed about the lives of others. This constant stream of updates can lead to FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), the fear of missing something important or exciting. This fear keeps us glued to our screens, always afraid of missing something.
3 - Slot machine in your pocket
The unpredictability of social media is comparable to that of a slot machine. Sometimes you get a lot of likes and comments, sometimes almost none. These variable rewards make social media irresistible, as we always hope for that 'jackpot' of social approval on our next post.
4 - Personalization: your unique digital world
Algorithms play a major role in making social media addictive. They learn from your behavior and preferences to create a customized feed that keeps you interested. The more you scroll, the better the algorithm becomes at holding your attention.
Also read 👉 More happiness, less screen - EditieNL interview with Mariko
5 - The great quest for social confirmation
As social beings, we constantly seek validation and recognition from others. Social media provides an easy and quick way to gain this social validation, which keeps us coming back to these platforms.
6 - Always available
The constant availability of social media via smartphones means we can access it anytime, anywhere. This easy accessibility contributes to the frequent use and difficulty of disconnecting.
Awareness of these mechanisms behind social media can help us build a healthier relationship with it. It's important to strive for balance and be aware of our digital habits. Remember, a like is nice, but it doesn't determine your happiness or self-worth.
Watch inspiration
Then be sure to watch these short films, documentaries and feature films. You will find this and much more in our Digital Detox .
1 - Living the Instagram lie
Be very honest with yourself: "Are you living an Instagram lie?" Let me start: I do, which is why you see relatively few photos of myself on our business Instagram account (and certainly none in private). Because when you see them, it is accidentally one that I (according to myself) like. With video on Instagram I often use a filter and if my bags are too big, forget it... So yes, I live that Instagram lie a bit. And if you watch the video below, you might recognize yourself in something.
2 - The Social Dilemma
"Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma is chilling and a must see," I read on Elle.com and that is honestly not an exaggeration... Social media is addictive, causes us health problems and is a danger to democracy. In the Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma, former employees of Facebook, Instagram, Google and YouTube, among others, sound the alarm. Not news, but shocking to have it explained so clearly. Social media is a great place for connection and as a small(er) entrepreneur you can easily become visible. But it also has a very dark side that we cannot ignore. It is (made) heavily addictive and as a user you are exposed to manipulation...
3 - The Great Hack
IS social media really so um... 'bad'?! Well, if you still have any doubts, I invite you to watch this Netflix documentary: The Great Hack. Watch and discover how the data company Cambridge Analytica became a symbol for the dark side of social media in the aftermath of the 2016 US presidential election... Watch the trailer here. An eye opener.
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