Use of English

Hooked on the Feed

Few developments have transformed daily life as thoroughly as social media. What began as a convenient way to stay in touch has, for many people, turned (0) INTO a habit that shapes how they think, work and relax. Notifications compete constantly for attention, and many users find it hard to (1) .......... the urge to check their phones, even during conversations or meals. This behaviour is not simply a matter of poor discipline; platforms are carefully designed to keep people (2) .......... by offering a steady stream of novelty, approval and distraction. As a result, many individuals have become increasingly (3) .......... on online validation. A post that attracts little attention can leave users oddly disappointed, while a popular one may provide only short-lived satisfaction. Over time, this can (4) .......... into a cycle in which self-worth is measured by likes, views and comments. Critics also point (5) .......... that endless scrolling reduces concentration and makes genuine rest more difficult to achieve. Although social media can be informative and entertaining, excessive use often comes at the (6) .......... of face-to-face interaction, sleep and mental clarity. If society is to address the problem, people must become more aware of the habits they have fallen (7) .......... and set clearer limits on their screen time. Otherwise, what was meant to connect us may well (8) .......... up controlling us.