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Why are we all so desperate for instagram likes? | Addicted to... Likes - BBC

#Social Media Marketing
2026-01-07 18:198 min read

Content Introduction
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In this video, journalist and TV presenter Diana shares her personal journey with social media, discussing the significant changes brought about by technology in her lifetime. She highlights the addictive nature of social media platforms, designed by tech companies to keep users engaged. Diana interviews Rebecca Meacham, who manages Glasgow Caledonian University's social media channels, exploring how personal use of social media often intertwines with professional responsibilities. The conversation touches on the effect of likes and comments on self-esteem, the challenges of maintaining a healthy relationship with social media, and the importance of setting boundaries. The discussion underscores the need for awareness and control over technology usage to prevent it from taking over our lives.

Key Information

  • Diana identifies herself as a journalist, author, and TV presenter, discussing the significant changes she has observed in technology and social media during her lifetime.
  • She notes the addictive nature of social media platforms, mentioning how companies employ psychologists to enhance engagement with their apps.
  • Diana reflects on her personal social media usage, highlighting the pressure for likes and the emotional impact of receiving low interaction on her posts.
  • She acknowledges the urge to check notifications and interact with social media after posting, admitting that she finds it difficult to manage this behavior.
  • Diana shares her intention to explore social media addiction, recognizing that it can affect mental health, especially among younger people.

Timeline Analysis

Content Keywords

Diana

Diana introduces herself as a journalist, author, and TV presenter, sharing her perspective as part of the online generation that has observed significant changes during her lifetime, particularly regarding the rise of social media.

Rebecca Meacham

Rebecca Meacham, who runs the social media channels for Glasgow Caledonian University, discusses the addictive nature of social media applications influenced by psychological tactics employed by tech companies.

Social Media Usage

Diana expresses how social media is primarily used for personal updates and the emotional impact of receiving likes. She reflects on the societal pressures associated with online interaction and the feelings of inadequacy linked to user engagement.

Social Media Addiction

Diana and her peers acknowledge a collective addiction to social media, recognizing its impact on mental health, especially among younger individuals facing self-esteem issues.

Likes and Notifications

The conversation shifts to the nature of likes as notifications that influence social media behavior, with a recognition of the need for users to take control over their technology usage to prevent it from dominating their lives.

Self-awareness in Social Media

Diana emphasizes the importance of being aware of personal social media habits and actively taking steps to manage usage, suggesting the practice of focusing on other tasks after posting to reduce dependency.

Related questions&answers

What is Diana's profession?

Diana is a journalist, author, and TV presenter.

What significant change has Diana observed in her lifetime?

Diana has seen the massive rise of social media, which wasn't a thing before.

What role do psychologists play in tech companies according to Diana?

Tech companies employ psychologists to make their apps more addictive.

How does Rebecca use social media personally?

Rebecca mostly uses social media to post updates and photos for her friends and family.

Does Rebecca find the lack of likes on her posts frustrating?

Yes, she admits that not getting a lot of likes and interactions can be bothersome.

What advice does Diana give about checking social media?

She suggests putting your phone away and focusing on another task after posting to avoid constantly checking.

What does Diana feel about being 'addicted' to social media?

Diana admits that she would consider herself somewhat addicted to social media and recognizes that it's a common issue.

What does Kumba emphasize about her online presence?

Kumba has strict rules to make sure her online world doesn't take over her real life.

Why is social media considered a double-edged sword?

Social media can enhance connection and interaction but can also consume one's life if not managed properly.

What does Diana believe about dependency on social media?

She believes that dependence on social media is a major challenge we face, as these platforms are designed to draw us in.

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