Howard, a sophomore journalism student, discusses her struggles with internet addiction, referencing insights from psychologists Sherry Turkle, Dr. Tyia Grange Isaacson, and Dr. Narineh Hartoonian.
She explores how technology exploits emotional vulnerability, with 90% of a 2025 survey’s respondents citing accessibility as the main appeal of AI mental health support.
Howard argues that understanding the emotional needs behind excessive internet use is essential for meaningful change, advocating for self-awareness and alternative coping strategies beyond simply reducing screentime.
Since addictive design fuels profit, can tech giants ever truly prioritize user well-being over engagement?
As AI chatbots replace therapy, what hidden ethical risks and biases are we ignoring?
If loneliness is the real disease, is blaming our screens just treating a symptom?
If Gen Z is the first generation with lower cognitive scores, is school technology to blame?
How does endless scrolling and 'brain rot' physically alter our brains' ability to think deeply?
A jury found Meta liable for addictive design. Is this the start of a legal reckoning?