312 words
1–2 minutes

Welcome

How many times have you checked your phone today? For most university students, social media is a constant presence throughout the day. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and X help us stay connected, entertained, and informed. However, these platforms are also carefully designed to capture and hold our attention. In this module, you will explore how social media influences thoughts, emotions, behaviour, self-esteem, and mental well-being. You will investigate the psychological mechanisms behind social media design and develop practical strategies for building healthier digital habits.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • Explain how social media platforms are designed to influence behaviour.
  • Analyze how social comparison affects self-esteem and identity.
  • Evaluate both positive and negative mental health impacts of social media.
  • Apply evidence-based digital well-being strategies to your own life.

Before You Begin

Complete this quick reflection:

  • How many hours per day do you spend on social media?
  • Which platform(s) do you use most often?
  • Do you believe social media affects your mental health? Why or why not?

Module 1: Why Can’t I Stop Scrolling?

Essential Question

How are social media platforms designed to keep our attention?

What is Persuasive Technology?

Persuasive technology refers to digital systems intentionally designed to influence user behaviour.

Social media platforms use features such as:

  • Infinite scrolling
  • Likes and reactions
  • Push notifications
  • Personalized recommendation algorithms
  • Autoplay videos

These features encourage repeated engagement and can create powerful habits.

Watch
TODO: Find an applicable video to watch

Activity: Social Media Detective

Open your favourite social media platform.
Identify examples of:

  • Infinite scroll
  • Notifications
  • Algorithmic recommendations
  • Engagement metrics (likes, streaks, shares)
  • Autoplay content

Reflection:

Which  feature seems most effective at keeping your attention?

Knowledge Check

TODO: Multiple Choice Quiz

Key Takeaways

  • Social media platforms are intentionally designed to maximize engagement.
  • Behavioural reinforcement helps explain repeated checking behaviours.
  • Notifications and rewards can create habit loops.