Doomscrolling: Students Define and Confront Social Media Addiction
In an era dominated by digital connectivity, social media has become an integral part of daily life. However, for many, casual browsing has spiraled into a behavioral issue with serious consequences. Social media addiction is a modern phenomenon characterized by an uncontrollable urge to engage with online platforms, often to the detriment of real-world responsibilities and relationships.
This isn’t just about spending a lot of time online; it’s a compulsive behavior that can significantly impact mental and physical health. To better understand this growing concern, it is essential to listen to the perspectives of students who are on the front lines of this digital dilemma. Their insights define the problem and highlight its tangible effects on everyday life.
Defining the Addiction
At its core, social media addiction is a behavioral dependency. It is marked by a persistent and compulsive need to use social media, which disrupts important areas of a person’s life, such as work, school, and interpersonal relationships.
(Khadija Essahimi) offers a comprehensive definition:
“Social media addiction is a type of behavioral addiction that’s broadly defined as compulsive engagement in social media platforms that significantly discuss the user functioning in important life domains, Such as interpersonal relations, work or study performance”
Adding to this, (Khadija alighaze) describes the internal struggle associated with this condition, emphasizing the psychological drive behind the behavior.
“Social media addiction Is a behavioral addition that is characterized as being overly concerned about social media driven by an uncontrollable urge to stay connected for too much time and effort to social media that it impairs other important life areas”
The Unseen Risks and Neglected Duties
Many users begin using social media without a full understanding of its potential for addiction. (Afedir Khadija) points out that what starts as entertainment can quickly lead to neglect, as users are drawn into a world of superficial content at the expense of their real-world obligations.
“Many users who enter the world of social media they do not know its risks; they spend their most time in it. They are watching pity videos, following pity people, that makes them neglect their tasks of studying or working. That is why we should beware of excessive use of social media”
Basma Z. (High School)
The Toll on Young People
The impact of this addiction is particularly pronounced among young people. (Lhafid Habiba) details how excessive use of platforms like Instagram and TikTok directly affects their academic performance, health, and social connections.
“Social addiction has become a problem for many young people. like Instagram They spend long hours on apps and Tik Tok, which affects their studies, health, and sleep. They also start to lose real communication with Family and friends. That’s why it’s better to manage time and avoid using the phone too much.”
Malak F. (High School)
social media addiction is not a trivial matter but a serious behavioral issue with far-reaching consequences. From disrupting academic and professional life to causing anxiety and eroding real-life relationships, the dangers are clear (Khadija Lmsafin: Ahl Souss). Their message serves as a crucial call for awareness and moderation, urging users to reclaim control over their digital habits to protect their well-being.
