International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 2 (March-April 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of April to publish your research paper in the issue of March-April.

From Mindless to Mindful Scrolling: How Emotion Can Twist Online Engagement

Author(s) Ms. Riya Ahmed, Dr. Bijoy Krishna Panda
Country India
Abstract Mindless scrolling has emerged as a pervasive yet understudied phenomenon in the digital age, often used as a means to cope with boredom, anxiety, and emotional discomfort. Characterized by passive and purposeless social media consumption, it is typically accompanied by reduced awareness of time and content. This review article aimed to explore the concept of mindless scrolling, factors that contribute to this behavior, and its influence on users’ well-being across psychological, neurological, and physical domains. It also explored the transition from mindless to mindful scrolling, emphasizing intentional and conscious engagement with digital content. After reviewing existing literature, including scholarly articles, media sources, and relevant websites, this study identified persuasive platform design, emotional avoidance and other factors contributing to the habit of mindless scrolling. The findings highlighted the negative influence of mindless scrolling on mental health and cognitive functioning, while also outlining practical strategies to promote mindful social media use. These include awareness-based practices, introduction of design friction through reaction-based interfaces and mindful scrolling feedback nudges, and the use of various digital well-being tools. The findings offer valuable insights for researchers, educators, and policymakers to better understand mindless scrolling and implement practical strategies that foster mindful technology use.
Keywords Mindless Scrolling, Doomscrolling, Mindful Scrolling, Short-Video Addiction, Mindful Technology Use, Digital Well-Being
Field Sociology > Philosophy / Psychology / Religion
Published In Volume 8, Issue 2, March-April 2026
Published On 2026-04-12
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i02.74324

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