ItemArticle

Mindlessness by design: how digital platforms shape the psychological, behavioral and civic experiences of Generation Z

Title
Mindlessness by design: how digital platforms shape the psychological, behavioral and civic experiences of Generation Z
Creator
Sheikh, Mohammad Asif; Khriam, Daphilabet
Description
Purpose This paper aims to examine how digital platform architectures shape the psychological, behavioral and civic experiences of Generation Z. It challenges deficit-based views of mindlessness, situating distraction, procrastination and diminished attention within the structural logics of the attention economy rather than individual failure. Design/methodology/approach This commentary synthesizes illustrative and representative evidence from psychological, cognitive, sociological and policy literatures across Indian and global contexts to advance a conceptual account of platform-induced mindlessness as a socio-technical phenomenon, rather than undertaking a systematic or exhaustive review. Findings Excessive smartphone use, algorithmic personalization and media multitasking erode attentional control, academic performance and emotional resilience while weakening face-to-face interaction and civic participation. These patterns reflect engagement-maximization strategies embedded in digital infrastructures and mark a shift from situational distraction to structurally conditioned cognition. Originality/value By reframing mindlessness as a systemic rather than moral issue, this paper advances the concept of structural accountability in digital life. It calls for reforms in platform governance, digital literacy and public policy to promote psychological well-being and civic inclusion through collective and interdisciplinary responsibility. 2026 Emerald Publishing Limited
Source
Journal of Public Mental Health;pp.1-9
Date
01-01-2025
Publisher
Emerald Publishing
Subject
Algorithmic design; Attention economy; Digital distraction; Digital mindlessness; Generation Z; Smartphone use
Coverage
Sheikh M.A., School of Psychological Sciences, Christ University, Bengaluru, India; Khriam D., Daphilabet Khriam is based at the Department of English and Cultural Studies, Christ University, Bengaluru, India
Rights
Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library
Relation
ISSN: 17465729;
Format
online
Language
English
Type
Article

Citation

Sheikh, Mohammad Asif; Khriam, Daphilabet, “Mindlessness by design: how digital platforms shape the psychological, behavioral and civic experiences of Generation Z,” CHRIST (Deemed To Be University) Institutional Repository, accessed June 18, 2026, https://archives.christuniversity.in/items/show/22904.

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