social media

The Dopamine Myth: Why Social Media Isn't Actually Hijacking Your Brain

You’ve probably heard it a thousand times: “Social media is hijacking your dopamine system!” It’s become one of those facts everyone knows. Except… it’s not quite accurate.

5 Social Media Myths That Won't Die (And What Research Actually Shows)

Every few months, another headline screams about how social media is destroying a generation. As someone who studies this stuff professionally, I find myself constantly correcting the same misconceptions. Let’s break down five persistent myths and what the research actually shows.

FOMO Is Real, But It's Not New

Fear of Missing Out—FOMO—has become synonymous with the social media age. But here’s something that might surprise you: FOMO isn’t actually new. What’s new is the scale.

Are Online Friendships 'Real' Friendships?

I often hear adults dismiss teenagers’ online friendships as somehow less valid than “real” friendships. This always strikes me as both wrong and a bit ironic—many of those same adults met their partners online.

The Comparison Trap: Why We Can't Stop Measuring Ourselves Against Others

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” It’s a nice quote, but telling people to stop comparing themselves to others is like telling them to stop breathing. Social comparison is fundamental to how humans work.