Why we can’t stop scrolling
Summary
Despite knowing the harm doomscrolling causes to mental health, people continue due to cognitive dissonance and reinforcement mechanisms. Psychologist Raju Raut explains why this compulsive online behaviour persists and offers strategies to break the cycle.
Key Points
- Cognitive dissonance causes individuals to rationalize harmful doomscrolling behaviour despite knowing its negative effects.
- Doomscrolling acts as a coping mechanism for loneliness, uncertainty, and perceived lack of control but worsens anxiety and stress.
- Being 'chronically online' harms mental health when it disrupts daily functioning and emotional regulation, not merely by time spent online.
- Psychological strategies including cognitive, behavioural, and emotional regulation can help break the doomscrolling cycle without full disconnection.
