Psychology of Media & Technology
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Become a Peanuts Character With 20th Century Fox's 'Peanutize Me' Site

Become a Peanuts Character With 20th Century Fox's 'Peanutize Me' Site | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Avatar Maker Follows in Footsteps of Simpsons Marketing
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Peanutize Me! is a great example of creating content that links brand and identity.  High on entertainment, low on "sell.'  Fox Films invites you to translate yourself into a character in Charlie Brown's world.  In order to create an avatar, which, by the way, is fun, you have to evaluate yourself against the options available.  Which hair is 'me'?  Or not me?   As crazy as this sounds, your brain is off on a journey.  Whether your avatar is somewhat accurate or if you get wildly creative doesn't matter.  You have to self-reference to create either.  You are already projecting yourself into the world you now share with Charlie Brown. That simple act avatar creation has changed the relevance of Peanuts.  Will you go see the movie?  I don't know.  But either way, your meaning-making antennae are sensitized to pick up references to your new world.  The fact that you are in it means it's something to share. #brandpsychology #mediapsychology

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Work TV: In the WFH era, why shows about the office are more popular than ever 

Work TV: In the WFH era, why shows about the office are more popular than ever  | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Night after night, we log off, clock out, then relax by watching other people at work. WorkLife interviewed several media psychologists to ask why we are glued to work shows right now.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Familiar shows provide comfort by letting us connect with old friends-- characters we have known and loved, that make us feel like part of something.  But in times of change,  shows are also "research" as we see new behaviors or ponder larger questions about what's important in life.  This can lead to reflection about setting priorities and creating greater meaning and satisfaction.  #TV #WFH #Office #Severance #mediapsychology

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NGL Is the App That Will Tell You What You Don’t Want to Hear - The New York Times

NGL Is the App That Will Tell You What You Don’t Want to Hear - The New York Times | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
NGL is only the latest anonymous-messaging platform to take off by making explicit the subtext of most social media: We’re all judging one another. Why is it so hard to resist?
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

#NGL (Not Gonna Lie) is the latest in a long line of #anonymous messaging apps. Thanks to @Valeriya Safronova and @TheNewYorkTimes for tackling this topic. And, Not Gonna Lie but I have a problem with apps that remove #accountability. They encourage and normalize irresponsible behavior, preclude social connection, and put people who are most vulnerable to external pressures (like peers) at risk. 

 

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Dependent on Facebook Groups? Here's How to Break Free | WIRED

Dependent on Facebook Groups? Here's How to Break Free | WIRED | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
For people with serious medical conditions, groups are a valuable source of information—and they make it hard to quit Facebook. Here are some alternatives.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

There is nothing inherently unhealthy about social media groups--they can provide valuable social support.  Ask yourself: do the group's members create a sense of belonging that is emotionally positive or does it undermine your confidence?  The need to belong when we’re scared and challenged by life is very strong.  It can make us vulnerable to coercion, persuasion, and misinformation. Check for qualifications, validate information sources, avoid people who tell you what you "should" do, and always triangulate information. #health #socialmedia #socialsupport

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How new health trackers claim to improve your health by offering insight into your body

Are wearables like the Oura Ring and other tracking devices the answer to good health? Here's what experts say.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Data's no value without analysis; trackers don't help if you don't use them. Increasingly sophisticated biotrackers tackle both these problems by elevating behavioral data (like steps) into wellness metrics (like 'readiness' and metabolism') and integrating persuasive design like gamification, progress mapping and social networking.  I admit it, new gadgets are fun to try, so I'll let you know how my new Oura Ring works out.  #ouraring #fitnesstrackers #selfimprovement #behaviorchange #quantifiedself

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Bob Saget and grief: Why losing a TV dad can hurt so much

parasocial relationships explain our emotional attachment to "the characterization of a warm, supportive and unconditionally loving fatherly relationship."

Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Parasocial relationships explain our emotional attachment to  Bob Sagat and other sitcom dads who characterized the dad we always wanted--and why it can be so hard to say goodbye.. Because parasocial relationships create real feelings of connection, parasocial loss triggers real feelings of grief.   #saget #parasocial  #tvdad #grieving

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Sheep-Shearing TikTok is the most soothing place on the internet

Sheep-Shearing TikTok is the most soothing place on the internet | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Why is watching sheep-shearing videos so calming? Some of TikTok and YouTube's most popular shearers describe how and why their content brings viewers comfort.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

From the biological response to grooming behaviors and ASMR response to three-minutes or less narrative arcs with the most charming participants, watching sheep shearing on TikTok is like a NatGeo Zen experience with Mr. Rogers.  If you don't love Katie McRose after watching how lovingly she treats her sheep, something's seriously wrong.  And what a treat to focus on a happy story!  #positivemedia #mediapsychology #sheepshearing #TikTok

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As Parents Learn of Facebook’s Harms, Let’s Not Overlook Kids Using Tech Well

As Parents Learn of Facebook’s Harms, Let’s Not Overlook Kids Using Tech Well | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it

Join us for our upcoming Cyberwise Chat—TikTok & Gen Z: From Viral Dance Videos to Social Media Activism— a free webinar on Tue. 10/12 at 12 noon PST. My co-host, Diana Graber, and I will be joined by Dr. Brooke Foucault Welles. Brooke is the co-author of “#HashtagActivism: Networks of Race and Gender Justice” and an Associate Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Communication Studies at Northeastern University.  Register at Gen Z Activism #tiktokactivism #tiktok #mediapsychology #GenZ

Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Join us for our upcoming Cyberwise Chat—TikTok & Gen Z: From Viral Dance Videos to Social Media Activism— a free webinar on Tue. 10/12 at 12 noon PST. My co-host, Diana Graber, and I will be joined by Dr. Brooke Foucault Welles. Brooke is the co-author of “#HashtagActivism: Networks of Race and Gender Justice” and an Associate Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Communication Studies at Northeastern University.  Register at Gen Z Activism #tiktokactivism #tiktok #mediapsychology #GenZ

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How to help a friend who is arguing too much online - The

When someone is arguing with or baiting people frequently online, that could be a sign of emotional dysregulation and it's time to reach out.  

Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

While our instinct is to allow people their online privacy, even if they’re posting publicly, social media can give you a window into a person’s state of mind that you might not otherwise have. Social media is an extension of our social world. If someone is vulnerable and seeking external feedback, they’re going to be like that offline as well as on.  #mediapsychology #mentalhealth #socialmedia #emotionaldysregulation #conflict

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Marketers From CVS to Startup Geenie Take on Mental Wellness

Marketers From CVS to Startup Geenie Take on Mental Wellness | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
As the pandemic taxed consumers’ emotional health and compromised their self-image, retailers and brands are embracing more inclusive and authentic representations of beauty.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

The US Chamber of Commerce reported on the CVS-sponsored study showed that 83% of women ages 18 to 35 reported feeling better about themselves when they do a beauty routine. Brands and businesses should take note. Taking care of ourselves has psychological and physiological benefits that improve our mood and can positively impact our self-image. Self-image is at the core of well-being.   Brands have an opportunity to make promoting a healthy self-image and positive values a strategic priority. 

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Olivia Rodrigo breaks Disney star mold of Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez

Olivia Rodrigo breaks Disney star mold of Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Olivia Rodrigo has been able to balance her onscreen job with her raw pop fame, a different path than the stars before her.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Social media has created an opportunity for young Disney stars like Olivia Rodrigo to retain some control over parts of their life and image and not be subsumed by the Disney image.  Celebrity visibility and direct fan access tilts the dynamics and power structure. In normal adolescent development, teens try out different roles and attitudes—a luxury not afforded to young Disney stars of the past.  There will still be the psychological challenges of fame, but a stronger sense of self can alleviate some of the pressures that can lead to a more troubled path as young stars mature. #celebrity #fame #Disney #mediapsychology #identity

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CVS Beauty Mark Initiative Reaches Full Compliancy

CVS Beauty Mark Initiative Reaches Full Compliancy | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Two years after launching its Beauty Mark initiative, CVS is announcing a Photoshop-free cosmetics aisle.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

I was honored to bring media psychology to CVS's Beauty Mark campaign and the message that beauty is not defined by artificial standards or that women they need to be "touched up" to be good enough.  COVID social isolation has made us more reliant than ever on media technology.  Video calling has helped us stay connected, but staring at ourselves for hours each day has also increased our self-consciousness.  This makes the CVS Beauty Mark campaign more timely than ever.  #beautymark #self-esteem #mediapsychology #cvs #realbeauty

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Hiding Likes on Instagram May Have Mental Health Benefits

Hiding Likes on Instagram May Have Mental Health Benefits | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Psychologists weigh in on the potential mental-health benefits of hiding likes on Instagram, the platforms latest feature.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

The choice of hiding "likes" on Instagram is a symptom, not the real issue.  The more control we have over our social media accounts, the better, for both our experience and our mental health, but the key is to practice mindful social media use, pay attention to what we use, why, and how we feel. Then we can figure out if using social media is supporting us--making our life better--or not.  Positive media use comes from evaluating how media affects each of us, deciding what we want from it, and then using it in ways that achieve those goals.  We have to exercise critical thinking, and have the ability to say, ‘Hey is this really working for me?” #positivemediapsychology #wellbeing #instagram #mediapsychology #mindfulsocialmedia

 

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The darkly soothing compulsion of 'doomscrolling' - BBC Worklife

The darkly soothing compulsion of 'doomscrolling' - BBC Worklife | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it

Why does endlessly looking for bad news feel so strangely gratifying – and can we break the habit?

Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Doomscrolling really just describes the innate need to try and get answers when we’re afraid.  Our sense of safety is based on how well we understand the environment and feel equipped to cope. #doomscrolling #compulsion #news #mediapsychology #howtocope.  See my post The Brain is Hardwired to Doomscroll

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Apple Watch sick mode? Yes, smartwatches should let you rest.

Apple Watch sick mode? Yes, smartwatches should let you rest. | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Worried about that streak? Your smartwatch shouldn't penalize you when rest is necessary.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

We all know about the importance of rest days in between workouts so our muscles can repair and our brains can rest.  Illness or exhaustion are the same.  We shouldn’t have to “disguise” rest and recovery.  They are vital components of self-care, self-compassion, and self-esteem. #selfcare #selfesteem #workoutstreak #fitnesstrackers #recovery

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Why are some dads so blunt over texts? Experts weigh in

If you regularly receive texts from your dad that are totally devoid of emotion (but full of periods), here's why.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Our expectations influence how we interpret all communications.  If texting is how we normally maintain relationships, then we assign meaning to the symbolic indicators of emotional experience like emotions, extra spacing, punctuation, capitalization.  My Dad, however, texted short messages in caps.  He didn't see all caps as 'yelling', he saw short texts as efficient and easier to read.   If you're having interpersonal issues over text, you can't fix it using texts. Clarify the assumptions on both sides, F2F or by phone.  It'll save you a lot of hurt feelings.

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Biotrackers: Good For Fitness, Bad for Mental Health?

Biotrackers: Good For Fitness, Bad for Mental Health? | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
In a data-driven world, we look to biotrackers to improve our well-being.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Talking with Kaitlin Reilly from Yahoo! Life for her article on #biotrackers inspired me to write up my notes in this post on @Psychology Today. I am liking my latest experiment with the ŌURA ring. We're not all #data nerds, though, so it's important to recognize what motivates you so that tracking adds value and not stress. #biotrackers #health #mediapsychology #wellness #mentalhealth #stress #wearables #fitness #motivation #exercise

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Facebook posts about grief beg a response. Is an emoji enough?

Facebook posts about grief beg a response. Is an emoji enough? | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Grief is everywhere. Open Facebook, open Instagram, TikTok and the suffering is . Is a heart emoji enough? A like? How should you react?
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

When you're deciding how to respond to someone's grief or suffering online, remember that others benefit from being heard and validated.   Even if you don't know the person well, an appropriate emoji or a brief message signals that you listened.  

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Subdivision's social posts reflected fear before Arbery shot

Subdivision's social posts reflected fear before Arbery shot | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Months before Ahmaud Arbery was killed, shooter Travis McMichael wrote a simple, chilling response to a Facebook post about a suspected car burglary in his Georgia neighborhood: “Arm up.” The item he commented on was sandwiched between chats about lost dogs and water service interruption, like in many online communities in the U.S. based around physical neighborhoods. At a time of broad re-examination of race, criminal justice and the role of technology, such online neighborhood forums in the U.S. have a troubling tendency to veer from wholesome community chitchat to anxious hypervigilance when suspicion is the discussion topic.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Social media, crime apps and NextDoor amplify anxiety and fear by focusing on danger--sharing events, news, and theories that increase vigilance and make the world seem more dangerous.  This can trigger instinctive reactions, such as the tendency to fear outsiders and increase the likelihood of violence in response to perceived threats.  #mediapsychology #Arbery #violence #gunviolence #fightorflight #Facebook 

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Netflix's 'Squid Game' fandom highlights need for self-preservation amid trauma

Netflix's 'Squid Game' fandom highlights need for self-preservation amid trauma | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Netflix's "Squid Game" highlights socioeconomic inequality and debt.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

The memefication of Squid Game is a way of processing some of the emotion, getting some distance with humor, and connecting back with our humanity after a year of COVID.  Dystopias tend to give us hope because it's like a lesson in how to survive the worst possible outcome.  #squidgame #meme #COVID #violence 

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Why people are so invested in TikTok’s ‘couch guy’ saga

Why people are so invested in TikTok’s ‘couch guy’ saga | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
The phenomenon of parasocial relationships is likely responsible for the 60 million views and counting on the viral video.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

The response to this TikTok video are not about the couch guy.  The video is like a Rorschach test of the viewers' self-esteem, perspective, experiences and fears.   A parasocial relationship is where someone feels they know a someone in the media because of the investment in time the person spends watching, commenting, interacting about the parasocial object.  People form parasocial attachments to celebrities they see often and fictional characters in stories and programs they love.  It is experienced by the viewer as a relationship with emotional attachment, even though it is one-sided.  

 

It's more a parasocial relationship with the "event" than with couch guy.  However, people are definitely activated by the video and making their own interpretation as if they more information that a few seconds of video.  While all parasocial relationships are about meaning making, the cough guy commenters are invested in their own interpretations of what they think they see in ways that reaffirms their worldview or worries and lets them  increases their self-image by “sharing their wisdom.”  For those who are getting some satisfaction or self-aggrandizement out of sharing their negative interpretation and "advice",  it's just trolling.  #parasocial #couchguy #TikTok #trolls #truecrime #mediapsychology

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Why Parents Can't Tolerate On-Screen Violence

Why Parents Can't Tolerate On-Screen Violence | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Since becoming a mom, I've noticed I can no longer handle violence or children and peril on TV. Just me?
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

There are a lot of physical changes when you become a mom.  Some research suggests that pregnancy impairs memory temporarily. It certainly was true for me, although I think that's nature's way of making the next kid seem like a good idea.  (It was.) The hormonal changes also increase the drive to connect and heighten sensitivity to danger to protect your young -- all of which makes sense from an evolutionary perspective.  Thus we gain vigilance and lose the ability to sleep deeply through the night and movies with gore or child abduction lose their appeal.  #mediapsychology #parenting #fightorflight #scarymovies

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Why Do We Love Diagnosing Strangers’ Mental Health Online?

Why Do We Love Diagnosing Strangers’ Mental Health Online? | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it

“People do not like uncertainty. Labeling someone with a mental illness puts that person into a category and provides an explanation for observed behavior--most often the wrong one.”

Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Unethical or not, people love to diagnose public figures. Most of the time, it is done as an insult or as a thinly-veiled expression of displeasure.  Even "well-meaning" concern oversteps personal boundaries when the armchair diagnosticians step in.  It can feel like bullying to the target, but worst of all, it perpetuates the public stigmas about mental health as something morally bad, a personal failing or socially unacceptable rather than a disease. 

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How Gen Z harnessed the internet and destroyed the generation wars

How Gen Z harnessed the internet and destroyed the generation wars | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Young people have always been the subject of criticism, but what happens when they can talk back?
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

People who think Gen Z is loud weren't around in the Sixties.  The issue then was not middle or side parts.  Every generation draws a line in the sand. The lasting impact is a product of quantity (demographics), values and collective agency.  #generationalconflict #socialchange 

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What to Do When Your Child Sees Something Inappropriate Online

What to Do When Your Child Sees Something Inappropriate Online | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
If it hasn’t happened yet, it will. That moment when your child sees something inappropriate online—something not meant for young eyes. Here's what to do.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

Kids aren't always equipped to handle inappropriate content such as violence, hate speech, or porn.  There are steps you can take to support and protect your kids before and after they come across something troublesome.  1) Stay calm--if you're freaked out, they will be too.  2) Communicate early and often to build trust. 3) Teach positive response strategies.  #parenting #mediapsychology #Internet  #medialiteracy

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Why Audio Is the Next Big Thing in Social Media

Why Audio Is the Next Big Thing in Social Media | Psychology of Media & Technology | Scoop.it
Social media platforms think their users want more audio features, but the days are gone when that means picking up the phone and continuing a conversation.
Dr. Pamela Rutledge's insight:

There's a big difference between a phone call and sitting in on a Clubhouse room. Many things account for its appeal.  It's a passive activity that feels like social connection, makes few demands and holds promise of finding something interesting at very little cost.  Read more on the psychology of Clubhouse on my blog pamelarutledge.com #clubhouse #psychology

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