Excessive Mobile Scrolling Reaches New Heights: 92 Metres a Day

News

It appears that getting lost in endless mobile feeds has become a regular occurrence for many smartphone users. A recent study published in Science Direct reveals that people scroll through about 92 metres of social media content daily – equivalent to the height of the Statue of Liberty.

This extensive scrolling often includes hours spent consuming negative news; a trend known as “doom-scrolling.” This habit can be both distressing and difficult to break. According to the Science Direct article, most people engage in this behaviour casually, yet they are forming opinions within that virtual environment.

The article suggests that people’s opinions are often shaped by the most extreme individuals and the most extreme content displayed on their screens which can lead them to mistakenly believe that such views are universally held. In reality, it is precisely the most extremist, alarming, and controversial content that gains traction on social media because it generates higher engagement and, consequently, more revenue for the companies that own these platforms.

Psychologist Claudio Akimoto explains that social media is already designed to keep users engaged for hours: “The goal is to capture as much of our time and attention as possible. We live in a world where society encourages and favours the pursuit of small, quick pleasures, such as glancing at our phones while in a lift, in the bathroom, or just before sleeping. These small pleasures facilitate social media’s intrusion into our lives and occupy space.”

He explains that at the beginning of social media, there was a timeline that displayed content in chronological order—the first to post appeared first. Today, with the feed, this excessive stream of content to consume, there is no longer chronological order. The algorithm shuffles the content according to what it deems most effective, creating the illusion of infinite content. Once the algorithm can shuffle, it can always highlight something new, creating the illusion that there is always more to come.”

Akimoto points out that users deceive themselves by thinking that social media provides a moment of rest. In reality, it is a very stressful moment. Far from being restful, time spent scrolling through social media is mentally exhausting. The constant barrage of fast-changing content forces the brain to work overtime, leading to a state known as “brain rot,” where the brain becomes overwhelmed and fatigued.

Akimoto advises that quitting phone use overnight is unlikely to work as relapses are common. Instead, he suggests setting screen time limits and being mindful of usage. Parents should actively monitor their children’s social media activity.

Without greater self-control, the amount of time people spend scrolling will only increase, with serious consequences for society.

Self-control is essential for our walk with the Lord Jesus. It is one of the virtues granted by the Holy Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:23. One of the most effective ways to develop this virtue is by continually seeking the presence of the Holy Spirit.

That’s why we invite you to join a special meeting every Wednesday at 7:30 pm (also at 7 am, 10 am & 3 pm) at a Universal Church near you. These meetings are designed to help you deepen your relationship with God and strengthen your communion with the Holy Spirit.

Click here to find the nearest Universal Church, or contact our Helpline at 020 7686 6000 for more information.

Sources: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352250X24001313

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