Is Social Media Addictive?

 Let's address the elephant in the room

Is social media addictive? This question stemmed from the NPR episode - Social Media is changing what "addiction" means. Now, before I get too deep in my recap of the episode, I am pausing to answer the question: Is social media addictive? The answer for me is yes. One could also argue that I have a slightly addictive personality (but just a little). If you've never heard that term before, the Cleveland Clinic defines "Addictive Personality" as a "casual" term used to describe a person who exhibits behaviors that lead them to overindulge.  Here's another cool article from the Mayo Clinic with a few signs of addictive personality traits. 

Now back to the podcast. 

In short, NPR host Brittany Luse, guest Shannon Bond, and Dr. Carl Erik Fisher are breaking down allegations that tech companies intentionally design apps to be addictive for young users. I wanted to look into these cases further, so I'm sharing the next few articles from The New York Times and PBS. 

  • https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/landmark-trial-accusing-tech-giants-of-harming-children-with-addictive-social-media-begins
  • https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/25/technology/social-media-trial-verdict.html
Overall, the podcast episode is really great! There is insight from a neuroscientist and an addiction psychiatrist. I hadn't thought much about the distinction between substance and behavioral addictions. Apparently, substance addiction is more widely recognized, and behavioral addiction is minimized, though it is becoming more prevalent. Fun Fact: There was a bloggers' anonymous for those addicted to blogging in the early 2000s. 

In closing, there were some great recommendations for those struggling. One understanding what it is that you are looking for before you go online. Are you lonely, looking for entertainment, or tired? Instead of going to social media, you can pick up the phone and call a friend, watch a comedy show, or take a nap. 

I hope you enjoy the podcast! Feel free to chime in below and let me know - Is Social Media addictive? 

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