A Summary of the "Doomscrolling" Phenomenon

Over the last fifty years, society has seen technological advancements at an exceptional rate. Whether it is the standard coffee machine or innovative space gear, everything evolved rapidly. Social media was created during this expansion, and with it, a new phenomenon was revealed—doomscrolling. Classified as “to spend excessive time online scrolling[...]through news or other content that makes one feel sad, anxious, angry, etc,” it can easily happen to anyone who has access to the digital world; however, adolescents and young adults are more prone to falling into its trap (“Doomscroll”). 

Firstly, “doomscrolling” is used quite regularly at the moment, even without a complete understanding of it. Overall, it is exactly what it sounds like, scrolling until a person’s doom. Individuals can easily become trapped in a series of searching, but searching for what, exactly? Entertaining content. According to a psychologist, Daniel Hoadley, “When online content doesn’t immediately capture our attention, the instinct is to keep scrolling until something does, and when we finally find it, the relief is typically short-lived” (Hoadley). This initial attempt to discover intriguing content is only the beginning, and it can easily start a chain reaction. Like a binge, doomscrolling is difficult to understand and control, and unfortunately, it can happen to anyone.

It is also crucial to note why doomscrolling has only just become a serious issue worldwide. When the pandemic hit in 2020, the only way people connected was online; sadly, that did not end when the pandemic did. Harvard experts even say, “But more than four years later, we're still living through tremendous social, political, and economic unrest[...]” (Salamon). It does not end there, though, because with social media adaptations, apps are attempting to hook viewers at all costs. That means platforms such as TikTok and Instagram are feeding grounds for doomscrolling, making it difficult for experts to combat. 

Additionally, if anyone is prone to doomscrolling, why are adolescents and young adults at higher risk of these habits? It is mainly due to a lack of brain development in younger people. In the science and medical world, it is known that as someone ages, their body and brain grow with them. This means the chances of that person falling into a cycle of any habitual sequence are higher. Whether it be a drug or a video game addiction, younger members of society are at a significantly higher risk than their elders due to their growing brains.

Likewise, one of the many sources of the pattern is the increase in dopamine reactions. One of the main reasons why social media is so addictive is the dopamine response it triggers within the brain. That being said, those responses affect adolescents and young adults more intensely, creating a stronger attachment to the content. While this repetitive stimulation might also seem harmless, it actually weakens the brain. This results in an “increasing[…]risk of anxiety, depression, and inattentiveness” in adolescents and young adults, which transpires into overwhelming their future (“Why Do Adolescents”). 

Furthermore, it is also quite easy to say someone is addicted to doomscrolling, but it is still much harder for adolescents and young adults to acknowledge it. Signs can be vague, and in some situations, it is considered the “norm” among peers. Nonetheless, there are various tactics for adolescents and young adults to identify their unhealthy relationship with technology. An article in the UC San Diego Today states six strategies: “Set time limits[...]disable notifications[...]create 'No-Phone' zones or times[...]curate [healthy] content[...]try replacing scrolling with healthier activities[and]seek support if needed” (Bock). By following these steps, eliminating doomscrolling becomes less stressful and more effective. It is an individualistic process that adolescents and young adults undergo, but it can be accomplished. 

Lastly, many adolescents and young people do not experience the effects of doomscrolling, yet society can still make a difference. First of all, any person can lead by example. When sitting with friends or family, be the first person to put their phone down; do not wait for others to disconnect. Secondly, as said earlier, setting boundaries and time limits is truly very beneficial. It can help “encourage regular breaks and give time for the mind to relax and recharge” (Ebersole). This then relates to the 80/20 rule: limit 80% of one’s time online to educational and productive tasks, and 20% entertainment and light-hearted content. Finally, prioritize activities and hobbies outside the online world. The real world is always here; it is whether or not they pursue it that makes the ultimate difference. 

In the end, the doomscrolling can sound terrifying. To many adolescents and young people, the term is loose and not prioritized properly. However, it does not have to be scary, as long as there is balance. Finding a balance of media content to real-world experiences is key.  By incorporating a routine of stability online, the chances of eliminating doomscrolling from reality become tangible and entirely true for everyone.