The Escape-and-Relief Trap
The Hook
Gaming or scrolling immediately after distress
How the Tactic Works
Relief from anxiety or loneliness can reinforce repeated screen use.
How AI / Algorithms May Amplify It
Feeds can present easily consumed material aligned with past engagement.
How to Recognize It
I reach for the app automatically when discomfort appears.
What It May Touch
Avoidance, loneliness, anxiety, helplessness, dependency, self-pity, numbing, fear of discomfort
Possible Buried Belief
“I cannot handle how I feel without this.”