Have you ever wondered why it is so satisfying to scroll through the endless Instagram feed, even if you have better things to do? Or why a simple like or comment can make your day?
Well, Instagram has been getting so additive by understanding the psychology behind the user’s behavior. In fact, it is so captivating that an average user spends about 53 minutes on the platform. (Source: BusinesDasher)
So, in this read, we’ll explore the story behind the social media giant. Along with some underlying strategies why that makes up keep coming back for more.
Let’s start!
The Rise of Instagram
I remember the time when Instagram first appeared on my mobile screen. The platform provided me with a simple and visually appealing way to share moments with friends and family.
However, in the beginning, it was all about using the filters to me that transformed my ordinary snapshots into something magical. I literally used to spend hours experimenting with the filter in the hopes of finding the perfect one for every occasion.
But as the platform grew, it’s not about the filters anymore, it’s about building a brand, having a sense of community, or sometimes even viewing the Instagram stories anonymously with the help of InstaNavigation. Well, nowadays, it’s almost interlinked with your self-worth, like how many hearts you got on your recent post and what’s your follower’s strength.
Despite its flaws, Instagram still remains a powerful tool for connections. It’s a platform where communities can be formed around a shared interest, artists can showcase their talent, and social movements can gain significant momentum, making it totally up to us to use it wisely.
Do You Know?
According to Oberlo, the total number of Instagram user is going to be 1.77 billion by 2028. And it is expected to grow from an average annual growth rate of 8.41% from 2019 to 2028.
The Psychology of Visual Content
Humans are visual creatures, and our brains are wired to process information more quickly and efficiently when it is presented to us in a visual format. And, this is perhaps why Instagram emphasis on stunning visuals to capture our attention.
Visuals have the power to evoke emotions, tell stories, and leave a lasting impression on the users. And, Instagram has curated an easy-to-navigate feed with a constant flow of visuals to hook the user to the platform. This can lead to a dopamine rush, reinforcing the user with a desire to keep scrolling mindlessly.
Influences on User Behavior
Instagram is more than just a social media platform, it’s a complex ecosystem that shapes our behavior in subtle and profound ways. The fear of missing out (FOMO) plays a major role here, as we constantly try to be up-to-date on what is happening in the lives of our friends and family.
Social comparison is also a great driving force in the user’s behaviour, as we’re always comparing ourselves to others. This can lead to negative emotions like envy and low self-esteem by witnessing a seamlessly perfect portrait, which again is very common on Instagram.
Another significant influence is the Instagram Story Viewer features. I’ve also found myself checking to see who viewed my story, which might seam like a harmless act, but it can quickly turn into a compulsive habit.
Do You Know?
According to Grove Treatment, 32% of internet users believe that they spend too much time on social media, while 52% of the users aged between 22-38 admit the feeling of social media addiction.
Psychological Impact of Instagram Usage
While Instagram is still one of the most effective ways to stay connected to with your friends and family, or to discover your new interests, its excessive use can lead to a range of negative emotions.
In fact, multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media usage and an increased risk of depression, anxiety, loneliness, or even some societal thoughts.
Another great concern would be the algorithm, that determines the content we see in our feeds. It can also a significant psychological impact as Instagram can always manipulate our political and social interest.
Strategies for Healthy Instagram Use
Given the potential downsides of heavy Instagram usage, here are a few strategies that have helped me build a healthier relationship with the platform:
Mindful scrolling: Instead of mindlessly scrolling through your feed, take a moment to be intentional about what you consume.
Digital Detox: Take regular breaks from social media, as this can also enhance your real-world connections.
Limit Notifications: Turn off the Instagram notifications to reduce distractions.
Practice Self-compassion: Remember, what we see on Instagram is often far from reality, so do not be discouraged by comparing yourself to others.
Conclusion
In closing, as we dive deeper into the psychology behind Instagram, it’s clear that the platform has a profound impact on our lives. So, by understanding the underlying psychological mechanism of Instagram, we can use the platform mindfully and harness its full potential.
So, the next time you open your Instagram application, take a moment to reflect your intentions. Are you here to connect with your friends and family, express your creativity, or simply just to escape reality?
