“I Want It Now!”: Instant Gratification of Digital Communications

The birth of the 24-hour news cycle created an expectation for audiences that the press would constantly report the latest news updates, whether or not there was anything truly newsworthy to report. This paradigm is largely driven by profits made from high audience traffic, whether from views on major television networks or clicks on Facebook and Google (Sambrook, 2017). The drive to be the first and the fastest has damaged the quality of reporting. In fact, in 2021, Americans’ trust in the media dipped to just 36%, a level second only to 2016 when 32% of adults in the U.S. reported finding the media trustworthy (Brenan, 2021). Audiences want their news reported immediately and continuously, but then lose confidence in the press when they inevitably make mistakes.

Likewise, the various digital platforms individuals use in their personal lives means that they are more reachable than ever. If they don’t answer the phone, send an email. If they still don’t answer, try a text. Still nothing? Message them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Our digitalcommunications are increasing while our face-to-face interactions are on thedecline, but these communications are failing to build the stronger relationships that come with in-personal connections. While there is a convenience to being able to communicate instantly, it comes with a fatigue that can occur with constant connectedness. Social media and other digital platforms may satisfy the desire to engage with other humans in the short-term, but it is not a viable long-term replacement for in-person relationships.

References:

Brenan, M. (2021, October 7). Americans' trust in media dips to second lowest on record. Gallup. https://news.gallup.com/poll/355526/americans-trust-media-dips-second-lowest-record.aspx

Sambrook, R. (2017, April 12). Taking the bait: The quest for instant gratification online is seriously compromising news reporting. Index on Censorship, 46(1), 16-17. https://doi.org/10.1177/0306422017703588