David Greenfield, a psychologist and founder of the Center for Internet and Technology Addiction in West Hartford, Conn., said the devices lure users with some powerful tactics.
One is “intermittent reinforcement,” which creates the idea that a user could get a reward at any time.
As with a slot machine, users are beckoned with lights and sounds but, even more powerful, information and reward tailored to a user’s interests and tastes.
“They’re all about impulse and not a lot about the control of that impulse,” Dr. Greenfield said of young consumers.
Moreover, he said, the adolescent brain is especially attuned to social connections, and “social media is all a perfect opportunity to connect with other people.”Meta responded to the lawsuit by saying that it had taken many steps to support families and teenagers.
Persons:
David Greenfield, ”, “, Dr, Greenfield, ” Meta, “ We’re
Organizations:
Center, Internet, Technology, Disorders
Locations:
West Hartford, Conn