Thank you to everyone who tuned into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app.
Paid Members get everything including the Courses and access to Romantipedia.com.
Today we have expert, Jeremy Fox, who is a master of EMDR for trauma, but has also spotted a psychological principle operating in digital media—perhaps even new kinds of illnesses…
SHOW NOTES:
In this conversation, Dr. Paul and Jeremy Fox delve into the concept of digital mental illness, exploring how technology and social media can lead to digital dissociation and impact our sense of self.
They discuss the implications of these phenomena on personal growth, identity, and connection, emphasizing the importance of observing ego and mindfulness in navigating the digital landscape.
The conversation also touches on the neuroscience behind digital engagement and the need for information fasting to combat the negative effects of constant online presence.
1. Introduction to Digital Mental Illness: Dr. Paul and Jeremy Fox discuss the emerging concept of "digital mental illness" or "digital dissociation," which Jeremy Fox elaborates on. The exploration focuses on how increased interaction with technology, especially social media and digital environments, may create new psychological challenges for individuals.
2. Impact of Technology on Human Interaction: The conversation leads to questions about how technology alters human experiences and interactions. Dr. Paul raises the idea of potential AI mental illness, speculating on whether AI could experience dissociation similar to humans.
3. Normative Dissociation: Jeremy explains “normative dissociation,” which occurs during social media use, such as mindlessly scrolling or losing track of time. This dissociation is characterized by:
- A diminished sense of willful choice
- Automatic behaviors (like pressing buttons without conscious thought)
- Time distortion and reduced self-awareness
- Poor memory regarding online activities
4. Digital Dissociation: The concept of "digital dissociation" is introduced, where extensive engagement in online activities can lead to a fragmented sense of self. This fragmentation creates discrete "digital ego states" that diverge from one's embodied identity, as individuals adopt different personas or behavior patterns online.
5. Ego State Theory: Jeremy draws on ego state theory to explain how coping-oriented segments of personality develop in response to environmental pressures and triggers. Traditionally, dissociation has been linked to trauma, but during the COVID-19 pandemic—marked by heightened use of Zoom and video gaming—an increase in feelings of depersonalization has been noted.
6. Correlation with COVID-19: The discussion references studies from 2022, indicating that the increase in digital engagement during the pandemic correlated with a rise in depersonalization experiences, further emphasizing the psychological impact of prolonged digital interaction.
Takeaways
Digital dissociation occurs during social media use.
Exercise can mitigate feelings of depersonalization.
Social media can create fragmented identities.
Observing ego is crucial for personal growth.
Digital media can lead to autopilot behavior.
Fragmented attention affects memory formation.
Information fasting can help regain focus.
Loneliness stems from a lack of human connection.
Digital technology can be both beneficial and deceptive.
Mindfulness is essential in the digital age.
Titles
Navigating Digital Mental Illness
The Effects of Digital Dissociation
Sound Bites
"Social media can fragment the sense of self."
"Digital media risks sending us into autopilot."
"Fragmented attention erodes lasting memories."
"We need an information fast from online reward."
"Camping can help unplug and face your thoughts."
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Digital Mental Illness
03:00 Understanding Digital Dissociation
05:59 The Impact of Social Media on Identity
08:47 The Role of Observing Ego in Personal Growth
12:08 The Neuroscience of Digital Engagement
14:58 Addressing Loneliness and Connection
17:54 The Need for Information Fasting
21:11 Confronting the Digital Age's Challenges
Share this post