The Dopamine Trap: How Social Media Hooks Your Brain
Social media has revolutionized how we connect, share, and consume information. Below the shiny surface, there is a solid trap that is highly nourished by dopamine , the neurotransmitter of our brain's reward system. This article analyses the science behind how social media catches the hooks of our minds, why they seem to be so irresistible, and how we can get out of their clutches. What Is Dopamine and Why Does It Matter? Dopamine is often called the "feel-good" chemical. This chemical is important for motivation, reward, and pleasure. As you may already know, something nice happens to you, such as eating a nice meal or getting a compliment: dopamine is released in your brain, reinforcing the action and conditioned to want to do it again. However, likes, comments, notifications, and continuous scrolling are well designed by online social media to induce some dopamine releases. Every slight activity generates a little rewarding, satisfying fix, putting you...