Brands can learn from the way fans used social media to construct and spread archetypal narratives. Depp’s fans embraced their campaigns, far outweighing Heard’s supporters in emotion and persistence. The memes, fancams, and tweets could not help but influence how the public and press talked about the trial. …

Toxic positivity is trending across social media. In times of stress, denying negative emotions and experiences makes things worse, not better. KEY POINTS The “good vibes only” trend on social media turns positivity toxic. Pushing “positive vibes” can make people feel inadequate, shamed and isolated. Brands contribute by monetizing only ‘positive’ social…

The courtroom drama of Depp vs Heard is ugly, but nothing compared to the vitriol on social media, as fans pick sides. KEY POINTS Depp vs Heard defamation suit has doubled the ratings of Court TV Stans (stalker+fan) have flooded social media with toxicity and threats Social media memes and hashtags simplify…

Parents worry about kids and social media. Snapchat is one of the most popular with kids and confusing for parents. Here are some of their questions. KEY POINTS Kids are drawn to apps where they can connect easily with friends without being spied on by parents. Social media apps are…

Memes translate complex ideas into simple, easily digestible, emotionally evocative messages that draw on an existing cultural schema. Memes construct the narratives that frame events, as we see with the Ukraine Invasion and influence who is cast as the hero and villain, “like us,” and “the other.” KEY POINTS Social media’s aesthetics…

KEY POINTS Data only helps if translated into useful, actionable information Biotrackers don’t work for everyone but for most users, they improve accountability, motivation, and engagement Trackers are not one size fits all. Choosing the right approach to behavior change means figuring out what works best for you. Are you sporting an…

Pop culture often romanticizes con artists, overlooking the devastation they cause. True crime and ‘art of the con’ fans are flocking to Netflix’s The Tinder Swindler. As Erin Jensen (2022) points out, serves up a topic sure to attract attention: a “reality” show that combines dating, glamour and riches, cons…

Why did so many people mourn the death of Bob Saget? Parasocial relationships describe the emotional connection we experience with loved characters and celebrities. KEY POINTS: TV dads are idealized versions of the fathers we’d all love to have A parasocial relationship describes the one-sided emotional attachment we feel to real and…

Successful virtual exercise experiences targets agency, mastery and social connection to inspire intrinsic motivation KEY POINTS Covid made hybrid experiences more acceptable and even desirable Self-determination theory is a framework for evaluating technology experience, focusing on core needs: agency, competence, and social connection Designed well, technology can contribute to the satisfaction of…