Episode 05: Psychology Used to Be My Friend (Boys)

Episode 5, Psychology Used to be My Friend – Boys, explores how psychology and technology have combined to hook boys into online gaming by exploiting their natural drive for achievement, mastery, and control. Gaming companies use persuasive design and dopamine-driven rewards to keep boys engaged, sometimes at the cost of their motivation, relationships, and real-world responsibilities. The episode highlights three key problems: boys becoming defiant as they seek mastery, disregarding everyday rules due to a sense of control and destiny, and gaming filling a spiritual void, offering virtual heroism instead of real-life fulfillment. Ultimately, gaming addiction can lead to isolation, sleep disorders, and an inability to enjoy real-world experiences.