The Dangers of Focusing on the Danger of Digital Media Use

Extensive attention has been paid to the potential harms of media consumption generally, and social media use in particular, with relatively little consideration given to the potential psychological benefits of media use. This talk will address why this bias exists and its potential for unintended negative consequences. Evidence of how self-selected and prescribed digital media content can support desirable outcomes, including reduced stress and procrastination, increased goal motivation and pursuit, and increased empathy and relational satisfaction, will be shared to highlight the need for better understanding of how to empower media users to make media choices that can support their psychological well-being.

Pizza will be provided at the event.

Event Location:

UT Austin Campus
G.B. Dealey Center for New Media, Room 5.208 (5th Floor)
300 W Dean Keeton St, Austin, TX 78705

Closest Parking
San Antonio Garage: 2420 San Antonio Street. San Antonio Garage, between 24th and 25th Streets
27th Street Garage: 109 W. 27th Street, on the corner of University Blvd. and 27th St.
Speedway Garage: 105 E. 27th Street, on the corner of 27th and Speedway.
Nueces Garage: 2400 Nueces St.

Speaker Bio:

Robin L. Nabi is a Professor of Communication at the University of California, Santa Barbara. With degrees from Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, she has published over 100 journal articles and book chapters investigating the effects of media use on emotional experiences, decision-making, and well-being.  She is the co-editor of two volumes: The SAGE Handbook of Media Processes and Effects and Emotions in the Digital World (Oxford University Press). She is a Fellow of the International Communication Association, and her research has been featured in numerous media outlets, including the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, NPR, CBC/Radio-Canada, and the Harvard Business Review.