Rage-baiting—posting intentionally infuriating content online to attract attention and engagement—has become a hot topic, particularly on TikTok, where creators are profiting off millions of angry comments. However, even if rage-bait doesn’t dominate your feeds, frequent social media use could still leave you feeling more irritable. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open sheds light on why social media might have this effect and how to navigate the emotional toll of scrolling.
What the Study Revealed
A study led by Dr. Roy Perlis of Harvard Medical School analyzed the social media habits of adults 18 and older, comparing platform usage—TikTok, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook—to irritability levels. Results showed those using social media "most of the day" scored higher on an irritability scale than non-users. TikTok users had the strongest link to irritability, followed by X. Notably, over 78% of respondents used social media daily, with nearly 25% online “most of the day.”
Does Social Media Cause Irritability or Vice Versa?
It’s unclear if social media causes irritability or if irritable people use it more, says Dr. Roy Perlis. Psychologist Jean Twenge suggests past research leans toward social media amplifying emotions like anger and irritability.
Why Some Platforms Are More Irritation-Inducing
The study found TikTok and X were more strongly linked to irritability than Instagram or Facebook, likely due to the opinionated content on those platforms. Instagram's focus on body image may trigger depression more than anger. Even after accounting for political discourse, the link between social media use and irritability persisted. Notably, those online "most of the day" showed the highest irritability, while moderate users reported slightly lower irritability than daily users.
Tips for a Healthier Relationship with Social Media
Experts recommend moderating social media use to reduce irritability. Limit screen time, focus on real-life activities, and use app timers to set boundaries. Be mindful of content that affects your mood and take breaks if needed. Prioritize face-to-face interactions and activities like outdoor time or hobbies to recharge.
Lastly, remember that your social media habits don’t just affect you—they can also impact your relationships. “Irritability is a good example of how social media use affects the people around you, not just the individual user,” says Twenge.
Moderating your time online may not only improve your mood but also foster a healthier environment for those in your life.
Source: Yahoo!
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