Responsible and ethical design to improve digital well-being

I think you’ll agree that the past 18 months have been unlike anything we’ve experienced before. For each of us, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in fundamental ways.

Many of us have directly or indirectly been affected by the pain of losing a loved one, the challenges of losing our job, and/or our home. Many recent studies show us that our anxiety has heightened because of the uncertainty caused by the pandemic.  

It’s important that we first acknowledge our innermost emotions—our vulnerabilities and fears. In her TedTalk, psychologist Susan David, says, embracing our emotions is essential to navigate life and move forward. Because how we cope with our emotions “shapes everything that matters”. We cannot shy away from or be fearful of our growing concerns. We need to face these feelings head-on. Feelings of grief, insecurity, being unsafe, perhaps even let down.

To add to this mix, research shows people are often overwhelmed with information and news online. It doesn’t help when much of it is often misleading, unhelpful, or false.

At Glimmer, we believe that it’s important, now more than ever, that we empower ourselves with evidence-based information. Information that is fact-checked. Information that is ethical and responsible, which does not mislead, misinform, and/or manipulate anyone through the spreading of false or fake news. 

We encourage you to seek out responsible and trusted news sources.

Over the past decade, investigative studies have shown that social media is responsible for spreading misinformation, disinformation, fake news, and more recently, negatively impacting the mental health and well-being of young girls in particular.

We believe that efforts to curb rising hate speech and toxic communication, and improve digital well-being, has simply, not been enough. Recent research confirms that some companies are encouraging outrage-inducing posts to drive engagement on their platforms and ignoring harmful behaviours perpetuated by the platform’s algorithms. For many, profit is prioritised over the well-being of humanity.

Say NO to toxic and reactive posts. 

Say yes to better digital well-being by showing kindness, respect, and empathy to everyone. The evidence is clear that when we engage in positive behaviours, others are inspired to do the same. 

Glimmer, be inspired. Let’s take better care of ourselves, each other, and our planet—through responsible and ethical online communication and collaboration.

#GlimmerBeInspired #DigitalWellbeing #Misinformation #TechForGood #EthicalDesign

Sources: 

The gift and power of emotional courage. Susan David. https://www.ted.com/talks/susan_david_the_gift_and_power_of_emotional_courage?utm_source=linkedin.com&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=social&utm_content=2022-02-10-cutdown

Angry by design: toxic communication and technical architectures. Luke Munn.

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41599-020-00550-7