The Psychology Behind What We Do On Facebook

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Facebook can be addictive. Whoever has signed up for the social network knows that. I mean, how could you possibly not check who has liked your photo, commented on your last update or even shared that awesome link you posted an hour ago? Of course, Facebook also makes us want to know what others are up to, who is sharing what and who is now friends with whom.

The reason behind this strong need for more Facebook: it triggers our brain’s pleasure center.

Also Read: How Your Social Networks Can Help You Get A Job

Yes, pleasure, you read that right. Satisfaction at least. Several studies have shown physiological reactions like pupil dilation happening while users are on Facebook, And these reactions are usually interpreted as indications of happiness.

#Facebook can be addictive, because it triggers our brain’s pleasure center.

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The following infographic created by QuickSprout looks into the reasons why we like, comment or share updates on Facebook. It also shows why, sometimes, we hesitate to share something on the social network.

Why Do We “Like”, Comment Or Post On Facebook?

44% of Facebook users “like” content posted by their friends at least once a day. The reasons why we do so are simple and straightforward:

It’ easy – 1 click only
It says something about us, about what we believe in.
It shows virtual empathy
Because we expect something in return
Because we have something to say

Needless to say that our motives are rather selfish.

And What Stops Us Sometimes From Posting Or Commenting?

The main reason we do not share, post or comment on something on Facebook is very simple: self-censorship.

What stops us from posting something on #Facebook? Self-censorship, of course!

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Researchers at Facebook conducted a study on self-censorship. What they found is quite striking:

– 71% of Facebook users have typed at least one status and then decided not to share
– On average, users changed their minds about 4.52 statuses and 3.2 comments

71% of Facebook users have typed at least one status and then decided not to share.

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There’s a lot more information in the infographic below, so take 5 minutes to go through it.