UNDERSTAND THE SCIENCE BEHIND DEVICE ADDICTION

In today's technology-driven lifestyle, it's easy to take our phones and other electronic devices for granted. We live in a world that is completely dependent on smartphones and laptops and iPads, not to mention wearable devices like smartwatches and fitness bands.

Nowadays, there are thousands of apps available to download onto an iPhone or Android device, allowing users to be able to do anything from listening to music or watching videos, all on their phone or tablet.

For many of us, our addiction to these devices has become so deeply ingrained that it leads to some serious issues when we have to let them go for a short period of time.

If you are concerned about your mental health and feel like your device is holding you back from living a fulfilling life, or from achieving the things that are important to you, this article might help answer some of these questions and explain the science behind device addiction and how to break it.

Dopamine and social reward

Smartphones themselves are not inherently addictive, but Dopamine is the true driver of our attachment to these devices.

Behavior motivation is influenced by a neurotransmitter called dopamine, which is released in the brain. It is released when we enjoy a great bite of food, when we engage in sexual activity, during physical exercise, and, most importantly, during meaningful social interactions.

Thanks to the likes, shares, comments, and laughing faces on Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram, we are activated by the dopamine-rewarding social stimuli that make us want to carry our smartphones with us at all times.

Using dopamine-driven learning strategies, how do social media apps benefit?

A reinforcement schedule, which is similar to the behavior of slot machines, is used by many apps in order to keep you engaged as much as possible.

Taking part in lottery games or gambling is a good example of a reward that is based on a variable ratio schedule.

The concept of variable reward schedules was introduced by psychologist B.F. Skinner in the 1930's.

According to his experiments, mice responded most frequently to reward-associated stimuli when the reward was administered after varying numbers of responses, which made it difficult for them to predict when they would receive rewards.

As humans, we have the same tendency to check habitually for rewards if we perceive them to be delivered randomly. You might be tempted to check your phone at the slightest sense of boredom, just out of habit. Those behind the screens, work very hard to keep you doing that.

Start Reviwewing Your Habits

As users, we have to decide how much time we want to spend with our smart devices and on social media apps. The advertisements-based profit model will continue to drive companies to keep your eyes glued to the screen.

Let us help you establish clear goals and guidelines to prevent Device Addiction and reduce screen time. Get in touch with us today!