kioskite

Kioskite refers to a phenomenon or condition where individuals exhibit an exaggerated or obsessive interest in and interaction with self-service kiosks. This can manifest in various ways, such as spending an inordinate amount of time at a kiosk, repeatedly using it for tasks not requiring such frequent attention, or expressing a strong emotional attachment to the technology. The term is not a recognized medical or psychological disorder but rather a descriptive label for a specific behavioral pattern observed in consumer technology use.

This behavior can arise from several factors. For some, it may be a preference for the perceived efficiency or control offered by kiosks over human interaction. Others might find comfort in the predictability and structured nature of kiosk interfaces. In certain contexts, the novelty or advanced features of a particular kiosk could also be a draw. While often harmless, excessive engagement with kiosks might indicate underlying social anxieties or a preference for digital over personal engagement. The term is generally used informally to describe a noticeable, sometimes amusing, but usually benign preoccupation with these automated service points.