Journal #9: Watch the video and complete the Social Media Disorder scale. How did you score?

On a scale of 0-9, I scored a 2. The reason for this score is that using a distraction to help focus on another topic is not always negative. If an escape is needed to calm down, it does not necessarily mean ignoring feelings; it can be a way to prevent spiraling or even to seek out calming content like videos. The other point I received on the scale is for neglecting homework to use social media. I use social media as a break instead of exhausting myself by completing back-to-back assignments.

What do you think about the items on the scale?

I do not believe the scale is truly accurate, as the questions come across as very vague and do not apply to all situations. As someone with ADHD, my screen time appears high, but that is because I need multiple stimuli happening at once, such as watching TV while writing a paper or scrolling through TikTok while brushing my teeth. Focusing on one task is not something I can easily do, if at all. When scrolling on social media to give my brain a break, it is not out of addiction; rather, it is because I require stimulation, similar to listening to music while reading a textbook. If I am not stimulated and am sitting in a meeting, I do wish I had my phone to play a game, as I cannot sit through lectures and must be hands-on. I can focus on playing Wordle while listening to the speaker.

Why do you think that different patterns are found across the world?

In today’s world, some people make a living solely from social media jobs, which become their main income and might boost their status. Also, I think different environments and learning styles lead to different behaviors. Some folks might think like me, while others enjoy things differently. Taking notes during meetings might work better for some than for others. Although I’m not saying questions or scales are useless, I believe they might not give the whole picture.