Play Book Tag discussion

Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked by Adam Alter - 4* - My Review

This book takes a look at the modern technological world and how behavioral addictions to screens, devices, games, electronic media, have adversely impacted our lives. He uses a combination of scientific research, anecdotes, and interviews in support of his observations and conclusions.

It is structured in three parts. Part One examines the origins of addictions, including both substance abuse and behavioral addictions (gambling, shopping, working, pornography, exercising, gaming, social media, web surfing, binge watching, etc.) He cites studies that indicate most people underestimate their screen usage by fifty percent.

Part Two looks at the factors that influence behavioral addictions, and the manner in which technology companies use these factors to create addictive gaming experiences. These factors include goal-seeking, feedback, progressing through increasingly complex “levels,” cliff hangers, and social aspects (such as acceptance, a sense of belonging, and the competitiveness for “likes.”)

Part Three provides options for moderating screens and technology usage. These include such methods as introducing technology to children at a slower pace, distraction, replacing old habits with new ones, and basically figuring out which pleasure-seeking behavior is being reinforced by tech media and substituting another method for achieving the same rewards.

The timing of this book coincides with a rise in concern about the amount of time and energy being consumed by new and existing technologies. It calls attention to the need to be intentional about usage of these media. It is written in a manner that is easily consumed and should appeal to a wide audience. It is an informative book that provides constructive advice for those concerned about over-usage of social media, phones, games, or basically any screen-time.