Both electronic media (social media, apps) and cigarettes act as quick-hit, artificial sources of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” neurotransmitter, which can lead to addiction. Cigarettes/vapes release dopamine through nicotine, while digital media does so through notifications and content, both hijacking the brain’s reward system to create compulsive, repetitive behaviors.
Both electronic media (social media, apps) and cigarettes act as quick-hit, artificial sources of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” neurotransmitter, which can lead to addiction. Cigarettes/vapes release dopamine through nicotine, while digital media does so through notifications and content, both hijacking the brain’s reward system to create compulsive, repetitive behaviors.