compare & despair: what social media comparison actually does to us
Jun 26, 2024
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Join the host on a 10-day social media detox journey, exploring psychological effects of comparison on social media. Dive into scientific theories like cognitive dissonance and self-discrepancy, and discover strategies for healthier social media use. Share your thoughts and join the challenge!
Social media comparison can lead to anxiety, depression, and lower self-esteem.
Conflicting self-representations on social media can widen the gap between actual and ideal self.
Deep dives
Reflection on Social Media Detox Progress
The podcaster reflects on completing day 8 and entering day 9 of a 10-day social media detox. Despite initial plans for daily episodes, some days remain undocumented due to time constraints and lack of meaningful content. The decision to extend the detox period to 30 days is influenced by family discussions and the pursuit of long-term behavioral changes related to social media usage.
Discussion on Psychological Impact of Social Media Comparison
The episode delves into the psychological effects of social media comparison, emphasizing its potential to amplify anxiety, depression, and lower self-esteem. Specific examples are provided highlighting increased body dissatisfaction and fear of missing out (FOMO) as common consequences. Research studies linking social media use to elevated anxiety levels and negative self-image among adolescents are referenced.
Cognitive Dissonance and Self-Theory Discrepancy
Further exploration focuses on the concepts of cognitive dissonance and self-theory discrepancy, revealing how conflicting cognitions and self-representations on social media can evoke emotional discomfort and a widening gap between one's actual self and ideal self. The psychological impact of seeking validation through social media interactions and dopamine-triggered responses is discussed, leading to compulsive behavior and addiction-like patterns.
Plans for Future Episodes and Strategies for Healthy Social Media Use
The podcaster hints at potential future episodes exploring positive approaches to social media use and strategies to mitigate its negative impacts. Suggested guidelines for healthier online habits and the importance of understanding psychological drivers for social comparison on digital platforms are highlighted. Encouragement for audience feedback and participation in the ongoing digital detox journey is expressed, seeking to foster engaging dialogue on balancing social media presence with mental wellness.
welcome to the digital detox diary entry #5-8 (lol)... 10 days without social media to test my brain & see what happens ... JOIN ME!
in today's episode i catch you up on the last few days, as well as dive into the psychological effects of comparison on social media & the scientific reasons behind them (from 19:13 mins onwards)...
to stay up to date on our lives, contribute to future episodes and share any of your thoughts - pls do follow us on instagram, tiktok or subscribe to us on youtube here! ☕ also, if you want to join our BOOK CLUB... you can join us here current book of the month is 'funny story' by emily henry).
logo credit: @french75studio
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