Survey
Demograpics
This demographic analysis is based on 139 responses to a survey on dopamine addiction. The data reveals that individuals in their 30s were the most engaged, comprising nearly 40% of all participants.
This significant representation from a single decade-wide age group may suggest a heightened awareness or concern regarding this topic among this demographic. The next most represented group was the 50+ cohort at 20.9%, indicating the issue's relevance extends to older generations.
Notably, teenagers (13-19) and individuals in their 20s, demographics often at the center of discussions about digital consumption and instant gratification, showed equal participation at 18% each. The lowest participation was observed from those in their 40s and under 13.
SURVEY FINDINGS
Smartphone screen time:
76%
Spend 3+ hrs daily on smartphone
Addiction:
82%
Feels addicted to smartphone
Feel most drawn to lately:
108
Related dopamine
Why do you use social media?
49%
Just out of habit
This survey reveals a clear progression from the normalization of smartphone and social media use to the emergence of digital dependence and finally to a growing awareness and desire for change. Smartphones have become a deeply embedded part of daily routines, with the majority of respondents spending over 3 hours a day on their devices, primarily for information, entertainment, and habitual engagement.
However, this heavy use is closely tied to self-reported feelings of digital addiction and a tendency to reflexively check phones when concentration wanes, perpetuating a cycle of distraction. Encouragingly, the findings also point to an emerging shift in priorities. Participants expressed strong interest in restorative, low-stimulation activities such as walking outdoors, meditating, or delaying phone use in the morning.
Together, these findings highlight a tension between the convenience and connectivity of digital life and the psychological cost of overuse, paired with an emerging cultural shift toward reclaiming focus and balance.
Street Interviews
To complement the quantitative survey data, we conducted a series of street interviews to capture candid, real-world perspectives on dopamine addiction. This qualitative approach revealed a high level of public awareness regarding digital dependency, even if the specific term "dopamine addiction" was not universally recognized.
Key themes that emerged include a common sentiment of being "always connected," prevalent struggles with digital distraction across all age groups, and a wide range of personal strategies for managing technology use. Overall, this method provided invaluable human context and anecdotal evidence that enriches our understanding of the survey results by adding personal stories and emotional depth.
Thematic Analysis
The Nature of Digital Engagement
The data reveals that much of the engagement with social media is driven by habit and a search for content, rather than purely social reasons.
Primary Reasons for Social Media Use
29%
To get news/information
26%
Out of boredom
24%
Just out of habit
21%
To communicate with friends
Common Responses to Lack of Concentration
15%
Listen to music
18%
Take a walk or rest
26%
Drink coffee or beverages
41%
Check my phone
A key theme is the self-perpetuating cycle where the phone is both the cause of and the solution to distraction. This is coupled with a widespread feeling of addiction.
The Cycle of Distraction and Perceived Addiction
12%
Music or slow content
27%
Talking to someone
61%
Walks or fresh air
Effective Refocusing Methods
Despite the strong pull of digital habits, there is a clear and consistent desire for
non-stimulating, healthier ways to refocus and recharge.
The Search for Healthy Alternatives
In response, we moved beyond simply analyzing the problem to propose tangible solutions that meet this user demand.
Our project serves as a small switch to break this vicious cycle and a first step toward creating a positive butterfly effect that can usher in a healthier digital age. "Hands-Free" is more than just freeing one's hands; it is a proposition for a life where we, not our devices, reclaim control by freeing our minds and thoughts.
First is the "Dopamine Restraint Bracelet," which helps friends mutually support each other's efforts to self-regulate. This tool transforms the challenge of a digital detox from a lonely battle into an act of mutual encouragement and social commitment.
Second, by creating the "Hands-Free" campaign poster, we promote the cultural message of putting down our smartphones for a moment to focus on the real world around us.