Curiosity Theory
A podcast about sharpening your curiosity through science, stories, and bold questions. With Astrophysicist Dr. Dakotah Tyler & STEM Educator Justin Shaifer.
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Curiosity Theory
You've Been Lied To About Social Media Detoxing
This week on Curiosity Theory, Dr. Dakotah Tyler (@dr.starkid) and Justin Shaifer (@mr.fascinate) break down a new research study showing that taking a break from social media does not reliably improve or worsen mental health.
They dig into why detox narratives are so popular, the placebo and expectation effects behind “feeling better,” and the actual psychological mechanisms affecting mood, anxiety, and attention online. They also unpack dopamine myths, algorithm design, comparison culture, and how to build a healthier digital relationship grounded in evidence, not trends.
Support Curiosity Theory by:
Joining our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/CuriosityTheory
Visiting our merch store: https://www.curiositytheorypod.com/merch
Follow the show: @curiositytheorypod
Hosted by Dr. Dakotah Tyler and Justin Shaifer