<2> The Doomscrolling Epidemic: How Missile Alerts and War Updates are Trapping Us
<3> The Rise of Doomscrolling
Doomscrolling, a term coined to describe the relentless scrolling through bad news on devices, has become a ubiquitous phenomenon in today’s digital age. With the proliferation of social media, news apps, and algorithm-driven feeds, users are increasingly trapped in a never-ending cycle of threat-monitoring. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the wake of missile alerts and war updates, which have become a staple of modern news cycles.
<3> The Psychology of Doomscrolling
Research suggests that doomscrolling is driven by a combination of factors, including fear, anxiety, and a desire for control. When faced with news of war or missile alerts, users may feel a sense of existential dread, which can trigger a compulsive need to stay informed. This can lead to a vicious cycle of scrolling, as users feel compelled to stay up-to-date on the latest developments, even if it means sacrificing sleep, productivity, and mental well-being.
<3> The Role of Algorithmic Feeds
Algorithmic feeds, which use complex algorithms to curate content based on user behavior, have become a major driver of doomscrolling.