DOOMSDAY SCROLLING / SURFING

DOOMSDAY SCROLLING / SURFING

Subject: Science & tech

Context: As Covid-19 has struck back to ravage our surroundings, most of us find ourselves continuously scrolling through pandemic-related news and social media feed — almost compulsively. That is what is called “doomscrolling” or “doomsday scrolling”.

Concept:

• It is the tendency to scroll through bad news even though the news is saddening or depressing.
• The term Doomsday Surfing is one of the new lexicon of words the COVID-19 has introduced into the daily lives of man.
• This is done by almost every human being on the earth. People in the age group of 15 years to 30 years are surfing to seek help.
• On the other hand, the people in the age group of 30 years to 45 years are blaming others on social media. On the brighter side, the senior age people are trying to spread positivity and spirituality.
• It has become a behavioural addiction. As people become more and more addictive, the social media algorithms designed to feed to the addictions serve up fulfilling the interests. This becomes a vicious cycle.

Dopamine and Doomsday Surfing

• Both positive and negative news gives dopamine high. Thus, Doomsday Surfing increases dopamine levels.
• Dopamine is a chemical compound found naturally in human body. It is a neuro transmitter. It controls the movements of the person. The right balance of dopamine is important for both physical and mental wellbeing.
• High Dopamine levels lead to difficulty in sleeping, increased energy levels, anxiety, and stress. On the other hand, it also gives improved ability to focus and learn.