The Reel Problem: A Psychologist’s Guide to Recognizing the Effects of Scrolling Through Soft Porn Reels on Facebook and Instagram (image: Pixabay)
We are increasingly engaging in mindless scrolling on various social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The algorithm is designed to keep the viewers hooked onto the app and often saturate the app with suggestive content like soft pornographic material. This kind of content might appeal to the large section of viewers, its impact on mental health cannot be ignored. It might be difficult to avoid consuming such content, but it can be made easier by recognizing the effects of soft porn content on one’s mental health.
One of the concerning issues with the body images represented in such content is that they create unachievable beauty standards. The viewers, especially adolescents and young adults are prone to distorted self-body image, leading to feelings of self-esteem. Also, when the viewer is constantly exposed to soft pornographic content, it can eventually result in desensitisation. This causes the viewer to keep seeking extremely explicit content to keep attaining a sense of pleasure. It creates a vicious cycle of mindless scrolling in search of the next dopamine hit, which hampers day-to-day functioning. It can also possibly lead to disinterest in real-life relationships due to the presence of objectification in these reels.
Read Also: A Psychologist’s Guide On ‘Doomscrolling’ – Consuming Negative Content Online In Excessive Amount
Coming to the point, how do we overcome these issues and detach ourselves from mindless scrolling of suggestive content?
1. One must recognize how we consume content and take steps in the case of prolonged exposure.It would be a good idea to set time limits on social media usage.
2. We need to become more self-aware about the changes due to the mindless scrolling of these reels and how they influence our mental and physical state.
3. You can also consciously choose accounts that create a positive impact on your mental health.
4. If you find yourself struggling to handle these issues, you can always seek professional help as it can create a proper framework to manage your daily activities.
The key to this reel problem is through practising mindfulness while consuming content on social media platforms. Ensure that you control the content that you consume, not the other way around. By following the above tips, one can become closer to creating a positive social media experience.
(Henna Ayoob is a highly regarded Consultant Psychologist and entrepreneur in Calicut, Kerala, specialises in psychological well-being. With a focus on sleep science, she is known for her expertise in guiding individuals toward optimal mental health. Henna is committed to fostering a healthier and more balanced lifestyle for her clients.)
