Trapped in the Temple of Doom(scrolling)
In an age where endless information is at our fingertips, a curious practice has emerged from the depths of our digital age – doomscrolling. This term refers to the behavior of endlessly scrolling through unfavorable news and updates on social media.
Doomscrolling, fuelled by a constant stream of negative news and catastrophic events, has become a compulsive habit for many individuals. The term gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic when lockdowners found themselves glued to their screens, absorbing a never-ending flow of alarming updates about the virus, economic uncertainties, and social unrest.
The habit of doomscrolling can be explained by how the brain reacts to upsetting information. When a person encounters distressing news, their brain releases stress hormones such as cortisol and stimulates the amygdala, which controls emotions. Continued exposure to this kind of news can trigger the release of dopamine, the reward hormone. This creates a cycle that only reinforces the behavior and makes them more likely to keep doomscrolling.
MRI scan of a healthy brain vs. the brain of a “doomscroller” from https://radiopaedia.org/cases/normal-mri-brain-adult
MRI scan of a healthy brain vs. the brain of a “doomscroller” from https://radiopaedia.org/cases/normal-mri-brain-adult
Researchers are employing advanced neuroimaging techniques to observe the brain activity of people engaged in doomscrolling. Findings suggest that a lengthened exposure to negative data increases activity in regions associated with fear and anxiety. Over time, this may lead to a desensitization to positive stimuli (like feel-good stories), leading individuals to seek out more negative content (such as news of unfortunate events) in search of the same response.
Additionally, the accessibility and constant onslaught of alarming updates on social media platforms may also contribute to a change in our attention spans; it can be difficult to focus on positive things when our minds become more used to negative stimuli.
The complications of doomscrolling don’t just affect individuals’ mental health. Social psychologists are studying its impact on societal well-being. The connected nature of social media platforms also aids in the spread of distressing news, creating a shared experience of doom.
As scientists unravel the intricacies of doomscrolling, they also find potential interventions to counteract its negative effects. Cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, mindfulness practices, and digital well-being tools are strategies that could help individuals break free from the cycle of doomscrolling.
The science of doomscrolling is an emerging field that brings attention to the complex relationship between our brains and digital information. As we navigate the trials of this modern age, understanding why this behavior occurs is crucial for developing strategies to promote mental well-being dominated by the constant barrage of negative news.