An Analysis: Why Are People So Annoying On Social Media?

An Analysis: Why Are People So Annoying On Social Media?

The convergence of communications and publishing has revolutionized the way we interact with each other. With the ability to publish information at-large being relatively new, social media platforms have become a stage for self-serving performances. Sociologist Erving Goffman likened social life to a theatre, where we deliver performances to one another, shaping our identities in the process. When we share content on social media, we do it transparently, in the presence of a crowd. The act of sharing becomes a performative act.

In this virtual Panopticon, there are no guards and prisoners. We are both guards and prisoners, watching and implicitly judging one another as we share content. The game we play online revolves around creative self-affirmation. We select material to share with friends, crafting messages that reflect how we want to be viewed. This game satisfies our deep psychological need for recognition, drawing us back to share and share again.

One reason why people can be annoying on social media is that we're not interacting with people, but with constructed profiles. Each status update is a plea for acknowledgment, a desire for social approval. We're interacting with the "presented Selfs" or constructs that individuals create. Harris Wittels introduced the concept of the Humblebrag, where individuals subtly brag to improve their social standing. However, constantly pointing out where people are wrong can be perceived as an attempt to bolster one's own image.

The Octalysis gamification framework sheds light on why individuals engage in certain behaviors on social media. The framework emphasizes human motivation and the fun and engaging elements found in games. It consists of eight core drives that influence behavior. One core drive is Epic Meaning & Calling, where individuals believe they are doing something greater than themselves. Another core drive is Development & Accomplishment, the internal drive to make progress and overcome challenges.

Empowerment of Creativity & Feedback is another core drive that motivates individuals. People are driven to engage in a creative process, receive feedback, and see the results of their creativity. Additionally, the core drive of Unpredictability & Curiosity plays a significant role. When individuals don't know what will happen next, their brains are engaged, leading them to think about it often.

Within the Octalysis framework, there are left brain and right brain core drives. Left brain core drives are extrinsic motivators, driven by logic, calculations, and ownership. Right brain core drives are intrinsic motivators, driven by creativity, self-expression, and social aspects. A good gamified system doesn't need to have all the core drives but should excel in the ones it implements.

To mitigate the annoyance factor on social media, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Practice empathy: Recognize that everyone on social media has their own needs and insecurities. Understanding this can help reduce frustration and promote more compassionate interactions.

2. Focus on meaningful engagement: Instead of seeking constant validation or trying to one-up others, strive for meaningful connections and conversations. Engage in discussions that foster growth, learning, and understanding.

3. Be mindful of your own motivations: Reflect on why you engage in certain behaviors on social media. Are you seeking attention or validation? Understanding your motivations can help you make more intentional choices and avoid annoying others.

In conclusion, the annoyance we experience on social media stems from the convergence of communication and publishing, the performative nature of sharing content, and the interaction with constructed profiles. Understanding human motivation through frameworks like Octalysis can shed light on why people engage in certain behaviors. By practicing empathy, focusing on meaningful engagement, and being mindful of our own motivations, we can contribute to a more positive and less annoying social media experience.