Thread by @nireyal

1/ Here’s a quick breakdown of something tech companies can do to help us manage digital distraction without making their products suck!

2/ People often talk about having companies ban certain features that keep us engaged, like infinite scroll or “streaks."

3/ But instead of losing the features that make platforms fun, we should require social networks to implement Use and Abuse policies — systems designed to protect people who are vulnerable.

Tech companies should identify users who want to stop using their products, then help!

4/ We know that most people suffering from addiction try to stop on their own.

They want to stop, and they know it — but they struggle to change their behavior.

5/ A similar pattern exists with social media overuse and abuse; there are people who want to stop, but they struggle to change their behavior.

A Use and Abuse policy would make a real difference in these situations.

6/ One of the things I’ve proposed is a feature that prompts heavy users with an offer to help.

When a super-heavy user pops up on their radar, they should ask, “You’ve been here a lot — do you want help cutting back?”

7/ If the user says, “Yes, I do want help,” then the company should have a support structure in place for them.

8/ For instance, they could provide easy toggles for removing triggers that can lead to overuse, offer guidance on learning to moderate use, and provide access to free online mental health services.

9/ Will this simple proposal solve digital distraction for good? Of course not.

The idea here is that companies have an ethical obligation to help people who are unable to help themselves, while still offering engaging products and services to everyone else.

10/ You can check out the full article here: nireyal.medium.com/social-network…