Tech companies use psychological tricks like variable rewards and the social element to keep users hooked on their devices.
Virtual reality and augmented reality have the potential to provide highly engaging experiences, and it is important to be aware of their impact and develop healthy habits of usage.
Creating effective systems and habits, such as setting firm boundaries and seeking out joy and utility, is key to controlling screen time and developing a balanced relationship with screens.
Deep dives
Psychological Tricks Used by Tech Companies
Tech companies use psychological tricks to keep users hooked on their devices. Variable rewards, such as receiving notifications or positive feedback, create a slot-machine-like experience that keeps users engaged. Setting goals and tracking metrics, such as likes or followers, taps into our goal-oriented nature. The social element of platforms creates a sense of hierarchy and the need for validation from others. Finally, the absence of stopping cues, such as endless scrolling, makes it difficult for users to disengage. Understanding these tricks can help individuals develop strategies to better control their screen time.
The Power of VR and AR Technology
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are emerging technologies that offer immersive experiences. While not yet mainstream, these technologies have the potential to provide highly engaging and powerful experiences. VR experiences, such as games, can be especially addictive due to their ability to transport users to different worlds and offer new levels of interactivity. AR can enhance our everyday reality by adding digital elements, opening up new possibilities for entertainment, learning, and communication. As these technologies advance, it is important to be aware of their potential impact on our lives and develop healthy habits of usage.
Managing Screen Time and Creating Boundaries
Creating effective systems and habits is key to controlling screen time. Vague rules like 'trying to' limit usage are generally ineffective. Instead, setting firm boundaries and adhering to them, such as establishing phone-free times like dinner or dedicated tech-free spaces, can be more successful. Developing self-awareness about the impact of screens on our well-being and actively seeking out activities and experiences that bring joy, utility, or a sense of awe can help prioritize and regulate screen use. Additionally, using tools like notification settings, grayscale mode, and other strategies to minimize distractions can support healthier tech habits.
Finding a Balance and Embracing the Benefits of Technology
While it is important to be aware of the negative impact of excessive screen time, it is also essential to appreciate the positive aspects of technology. Understanding what brings us joy, utility, or fulfillment can help us leverage the benefits of technology while minimizing the drawbacks. Each individual can curate their tech experience by focusing on the good aspects and consciously avoiding the negative ones. Recognizing the power of technology and using it intentionally can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling relationship with screens.
The Importance of Setting Boundaries with Phone Use
The speaker shares their personal experience of using different devices to regulate their phone use, such as keeping social media on one device and messaging on another. They emphasize the importance of creating rules and structures, like not having a phone in the bedroom and avoiding phone usage after certain times. Specific strategies mentioned include putting the phone in a different room while sleeping, keeping it in the car to avoid distractions while driving, and practicing intermittent fasting with phone usage. These measures are seen as ways to curb phone addiction and create a healthier relationship with technology.
The Power of Cliffhangers and Short Attention Spans
The speaker discusses the effectiveness of cliffhangers and the human tendency towards completionism. They explain that humans have a natural inclination to finish what they start and feel a sense of unease when things are left incomplete. This is why cliffhangers in TV shows and books work so well in keeping the audience engaged. The speaker also highlights how notifications and constant connectivity contribute to short attention spans and a fear of missing out (FOMO). They give an example of a flood of unnecessary emails being sent, causing an overload of notifications and highlights the need to manage these distractions for better well-being.
Adam Alter is a Professor of Marketing at New York University's Stern School of Business and an author.
Most adults report that they are within an arm's reach of their phone for 24 hours a day. Our devices have slotted themselves into our lives seamlessly, but controlling our screentime is becoming increasingly difficult.
Expect to learn the psychological tricks tech companies are using to keep you hooked, what Adam thinks the best strategies are to control screentime, what our concerns should be with VR technology, why cliffhangers are so powerful and much more...
