The internet has become so much part of everyday life that the discipline of ‘Cyber-psychology’ is now a thing that is studied in the academic world, boasting it’s own peer reviewed journal. It can only be a testament that the inter-connected-ness of computers shapes our lives in such profound ways that it’s worth studying.
What exactly is Cyber-Psychology? Chat GPT had this to say:
“Cyberpsychology is the study of how digital environments and technology impact human behavior, cognition, and emotion, exploring the interaction between individuals and the virtual world”
Who am I to disagree? So, with this in mind I’ll indulge in some unique psychological phenomenas that has been created, shaped and sustained by our online world, each one backed by Google Trends to illustrate when each phenomena has come about:
FOMO
‘Fear of Missing Out’ is a unique phenomenon experienced by users of the internet when the sheer thought of removing themselves away from social media would mean not being in the loop of the latest news, trends or gossip. Those on old-school Facebook may fear not being updated with the life events of old friends from marriages, pregnancies and career developments whilst those on the newer Tik-Tok may miss out on the latest techniques on cleaning, making money or new music.
There’s alot to be said to be ‘the first in the know’ and the constant barrage of new information makes the internet world an interesting and dynamic place to be involved in. Removing oneself – either voluntarily or not is an ostracisation to being in the loop and know what’s going on. Who wants to be left behind?
Doom-Scrolling
Passively ingesting whatever content is being pumped through social media for hours at a time is known as ‘Doom-Scrolling’. You may be able to envision the doom-scroller who is in mid-flow, the dead eyes, mouth slightly open and not a twinkle of life on their expression. They may well be lounging on a couch, or laid up on their side in bed. Wherever they are, it’s not uncommon for a frequent doom-scroller to be in this state for hours at a time.
Tik-Tok is the doom-scrollers place to dwell – the only action to move onto the next video is the upflick of a thumb and BANG, they are introduced to the next video that the algorithm decides to take them too.
Cyberchondria
“I went to the doctors and the told me I had Hypochondria. I said ‘oh no, no that as well’”
A term where excessively search health-related information becomes the norm on the mildest of complaints. Something feels off? A dig around on the internet can be more alluring than going to a doctors. Of course, in the wild west of the internet, the quality of information on offer won’t near suffice the expertise of a doctor within the field.
Conclusion
It’s clear to see that the internet has shaped our psychological make-up, whether it’s the psychological phenomena discussed here or more general attitudes shaped by our expose of the information we find on the ‘net, the influence the online world is profound on an individual and society.
The Journal of Psychological Research in Cyberspace is an example of serious study being undertaken of this. Whilst the internet and it’s effects are rapidly evolving with new terms coming into view constantly, it’s clear that whatever form it takes, it’s here to stay.