Curiosity Theory You've Been Lied To About Social Media Detoxing
Nov 25, 2025
This conversation dives into the effectiveness of social media detoxing, revealing that a break doesn't significantly change mental health. The hosts dissect the allure of detox narratives, the placebo effects involved, and tackle myths about dopamine and online behavior. They assess TikTok's complex algorithm, discuss the unique viral culture of today, and reflect on the implications for creators. Ideas around platform dependence, long-form versus short-form content, and the intriguing concept of robotheism spark a thought-provoking dialogue on our digital lives.
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Detoxing Doesn't Guarantee Better Mood
- A Nature meta-analysis found social media abstinence produced no reliable change in well-being or life satisfaction.
- Dakotah Tyler and Justin Shaifer highlight that quitting doesn't reliably make people feel better or worse over time.
Emotional Baselines Explain Little Long-Term Change
- People tend to return to a baseline of well-being even after life changes like quitting social media.
- Dakotah suggests genetic or set-point factors and societal normalization explain why abstinence effects fade.
Social Platforms Also Provide Social Glue
- Social media also serves as a low-effort conduit for social interaction and reminders of others.
- Justin notes quitting can reduce incidental social contact and make your phone line 'dry.'
