How Does Twitter/X Shape Your Well-Being? Insights from New Research
Discover the surprising psychological effects of your Twitter habits
Our latest episode of Outrage Overload is here, and it's one you won’t want to miss! This week, I’m joined by Victoria Oldemburgo de Mello, a PhD student at the University of Toronto, who takes us deep into the psychological impacts of Twitter (or X, as it’s now called). Her research uncovers some eye-opening connections between how we use social media and how it affects our well-being—and it's not always what you might expect.
Victoria’s study asked participants about their recent Twitter activity and had them report on their mental state—things like well-being, polarization, and their sense of belonging. The results? Some patterns emerged that, while correlational, suggest Twitter use could be influencing these factors in surprising ways.
For example, ever find yourself mindlessly scrolling through your feed just to kill time? Victoria discovered that passive consumption like this seems to be associated with more negative psychological outcomes than active participation—such as interacting with others or intentionally seeking information. But what about anxiety? And polarization? The study had some unexpected results there too, shaking up assumptions about how social media might influence those emotions.
Throughout the episode, Victoria highlights the role our own behavior plays in shaping these experiences. Yes, algorithms matter, but we also have a degree of control over how Twitter affects us. Whether you’re retweeting, checking out trending topics, or just looking for an escape, the way you use Twitter could be linked to very different outcomes, from a greater sense of belonging to increased outrage or polarization.
Victoria also offers insights into navigating social media mindfully—ways to set intentions, use platforms deliberately, and avoid the mental drain that comes from endless scrolling.
Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on how we can all better understand our relationship with social media—and maybe even use it a little smarter.
Best,
David
P.S. As always, we’re looking forward to your thoughts! Let us know how this episode resonates with your own experiences on Twitter.
🎧 Top Picks: Must-Listen Episodes for Election Season 🎧
With election season heating up, here are some key episodes of Outrage Overload that dive into the issues that matter most right now. Whether you're trying to cut through the noise or understand the forces driving political conflict, these episodes will give you valuable insights.
Outrage Bonus – Project 2025 and Agenda 47 – Sean Evans
Checks and balances that could influence its execution
Outrage Bonus – America on the Knife’s Edge
A special audio documentary episode
How Platforms Like OtherWeb and 1440 Are Changing News Consumption
Outrage Bonus – When “Listen to the Other Side” Isn’t Enough
Emergency Panel – Phyllis Leavitt and Lisa Swallow
Outrage BONUS – Step one: storm the capitol – Ben Hamilton
A Firsthand Account of the Capitol Breach – Challenging Preconceptions, Unveiling Complexities
New This Week in Outrage Episode!
It’s everything the Outrage Overload podcast is not. It’s not edited. It’s not scripted. It’s lightly researched. It’s David and Lisa talking about this week in outrage, what was in the news, in the memes, and maybe finding some backstory with a humorous (at least to us) twist.