Excessive exposure to negative news on social media is doing more than just ruining your mood, it’s reshaping how you see the world and even questioning the meaning of life. A groundbreaking study from Flinders University has unveiled the deep, existential impact of "doomscrolling," highlighting how this modern habit can distort our perception of humanity across different cultures.
The doomscrolling trap: why we can’t look away
Doomscrolling, the compulsive act of endlessly consuming distressing news on social media has become a troubling trend in recent years. This addictive behavior keeps users glued to their screens, scrolling through a flood of negative stories that leave a lasting mark on their psyche. According to the study, published in the Computers in Human Behavior Reports Journal, this habit is linked to significant shifts in how we view ourselves, others, and life itself. “Doomscrolling can have severe consequences for our mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, despair, and even existential crises,” warns lead author Reza Shabahang from Flinders University’s College of Education, Psychology, and Social Work.
The psychological cost of constant bad news
The research surveyed 800 university students from Iran and the United States representing both Eastern collective and Western individualistic cultures. Despite their cultural differences, participants from both groups exhibited similar psychological responses to doomscrolling, including increased existential anxiety and fears about life, death, and the human condition. In the Iranian group, doomscrolling was also strongly linked to misanthropy, a deep-seated distrust or dislike of people. “Negative news on social media can act as a form of vicarious trauma, where people experience psychological distress despite not being directly involved in the events they’re reading about,” Shabahang explains.
This secondhand trauma can lead to symptoms similar to PTSD, including heightened anxiety and a bleak outlook on life. Moreover, the study suggests that constant exposure to negative content online can undermine our beliefs about mortality and control, further eroding our trust in others and our view of the world.
Why this matters: the rising toll of digital negativity
As we become more reliant on social media and 24/7 news cycles, understanding the psychological toll of doomscrolling is more critical than ever. With more people turning to these platforms for information, the risk of widespread mental health issues is growing. This research underscores the need for greater awareness of the dangers of excessive negative news consumption and the importance of taking proactive steps to protect our mental well-being.
Shabahang advises, “Be mindful of your online habits. If you find yourself doomscrolling, try to limit your exposure and take regular breaks from social media.” By monitoring our digital behaviors and making small changes, we can mitigate the harmful effects of doomscrolling and maintain a healthier, more balanced perspective on the world.
As social media continues to dominate our lives, this study serves as a powerful reminder that our digital well-being is just as important as our physical health. By recognizing the dark side of doomscrolling and taking steps to curb it, we can protect ourselves from its existential consequences and cultivate a more positive worldview.
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