Is it normal to check closed apps on my phone compulsively, even when i know there's nothing new?
Have you ever caught yourself doing this and wondered if you're the only one? It turns out this bizarre quirk is a heavily studied psychological phenomenon. Cast your vote below to see how common you are, and scroll down to read the science behind it.
Have you ever done this?
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The Psychology Behind This Habit
Article Overview
- The psychology behind this habits
- Evolutionary advantages and origins
- Modern implications & studies
The habit of compulsively checking closed apps on our phones, even when we know there's nothing new, is a fascinating phenomenon that reveals the intricate workings of the human brain. This behaviour is driven by variable reward scheduling, a psychological mechanism that makes us crave unpredictable rewards. The same principle that makes slot machines addictive is at play here, where the uncertainty of finding something new is more compelling than the certainty of finding nothing.
The variable reward schedule is deliberately engineered by app designers to keep us hooked. By providing an unpredictable stream of notifications, likes, and updates, apps activate the brain's reward system, releasing feel-good chemicals such as dopamine. This can lead to a vicious cycle of compulsive checking, as our brains become wired to anticipate the next reward. Furthermore, the constant stream of information can activate our brain's default mode network, making us feel like we're missing out if we don't check our apps regularly.
"Human behavior is rarely random. Even our strangest quirks are deeply rooted in evolutionary biology and social preservation."
Understanding the psychology behind compulsive app-checking can help us break free from this habit. By recognizing the role of variable reward scheduling and the default mode network, we can take steps to mitigate its effects, such as turning off notifications or implementing app-free periods during the day.
Sources & Verification
OddlyHuman Psychology Team
VerifiedWritten and fact-checked by the OddlyHuman Behavioral Science Team. We verify all psychological, sociological, and historical claims against peer-reviewed journals, primary sources, and established encyclopedias to bring you accurate insights.
Read our Editorial Guidelines →B.F. Skinner's research in the 1950s established that variable-ratio reinforcement (occasional random rewards) produces the most resistant-to-extinction, most compulsive behaviours in all species tested — including humans with smartphones.