Cognicheating

Cognicheating is a term used to describe the act of deliberately consuming information or engaging in activities that are known to be detrimental to one's cognitive health or mental well-being. This can manifest in various ways, including prolonged exposure to misinformation, engaging in highly addictive behaviors such as excessive social media scrolling or binge-watching, or consuming content that induces significant stress or anxiety.

The "cogni" prefix refers to cognitive processes, while "cheating" implies an act of self-sabotage or a deliberate deviation from a healthier path. It suggests a conscious or semi-conscious choice to engage in behaviors that undermine one's ability to think clearly, focus, or maintain emotional stability. This is distinct from accidental exposure to negative influences, as cognicheating implies a degree of awareness that the activity is harmful.

Examples of cognicheating might include spending hours doomscrolling through negative news feeds, consuming conspiracy theories despite evidence to the contrary, or engaging in online arguments that consistently leave one feeling drained and agitated. The underlying motivation can vary, potentially stemming from boredom, a desire for novelty, a subconscious attraction to drama, or a difficulty in self-regulation. Recognizing cognicheating is the first step towards mitigating its effects and adopting healthier cognitive habits.