Research on the Addictive Nature of Social Media: Understanding Affordances and User Behavior

Abstract

In the ever-evolving landscape of the digital age, social media, the enigmatic fusion of technology and human connectivity, has woven itself into the very fabric of peoples existence. Navigating this mesmerizing realm, people cease to be mere spectators of lifes unfolding drama; instead, people emerge as active participants, peoples digital personas intricately intertwined with their offline selves. It is within this intricate dance of pixels and emotions that people confront a paradox of their own making. This paradox beckons them to ponder the profound impact of social media addiction on user behavior and well-being. In the words of an anonymous sage, In the realm of social media, people are no longer observers; they are participants, and the lines between the digital and physical lives continue to blur. Indeed, the tools that connect us can also trap them in a web of compulsive scrolling and digital dependency, casting shadows upon the luminescent promise of connectivity. This paper seeks to unveil the intricate threads that bind us to the alluring tapestry of social media addiction and to fathom its relationship with the unique affordances it offers, such as personalized content algorithms, constant notifications, and interactive features. By exploring these connections, this paper aims to shed light on the multifaceted dimensions of social media addiction and its far-reaching impact on individuals in the digital age.