Cyberpsychology Glossary
A
Algorithmic Bias – Systematic errors in AI and machine learning that lead to unfair outcomes, often reflecting societal biases.
Attention Economy – A business model where digital platforms compete for users’ attention through notifications, algorithms, and engagement-driven content.
Augmented Reality (AR) – A technology that overlays digital elements onto the real world, enhancing user experience.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) – The simulation of human intelligence by machines, including learning, reasoning, and problem-solving.
B
Behavioral Tracking – The collection of data on users' digital behaviors, such as clicks, search history, and interactions, often used for targeted advertising.
Big Data – Large sets of data collected from online activities, used for analysis, predictions, and decision-making.
Biohacking – The practice of using technology to enhance or modify biological functions, often including brain-computer interfaces or wearable tech.
Black Mirror Effect – A term inspired by the TV show Black Mirror, referring to the potential dark side of technological advancements on society.
C
Cyber Addiction – Excessive use of the internet, social media, or gaming, leading to negative impacts on mental health and daily life.
Cyberbullying – Harassment or bullying that occurs through digital platforms, including social media, messaging apps, and forums.
Cyberchondria – Anxiety and distress caused by excessive online health-related searches, often leading to self-diagnosis.
Cyber Identity – A person's digital presence, including social media profiles, online behavior, and digital reputation.
Cyberspace – The virtual environment of the internet where people interact, communicate, and engage in activities.
Cyberslacking – Using work or school internet access for non-work-related activities, reducing productivity.
D
Dark Patterns – Deceptive user interface designs that manipulate users into making unintended decisions, such as subscribing to services or sharing data.
Doomscrolling – The compulsive consumption of negative news online, often leading to anxiety and stress.
Digital Amnesia – The phenomenon where people rely on digital devices for memory, leading to reduced recall of information.
Digital Detox – A conscious break from digital devices to reduce stress, improve well-being, and regain focus.
Digital Footprint – The trail of data left behind from online activities, including social media interactions, browsing history, and shared content.
Digital Narcissism – Excessive self-promotion and validation-seeking behavior on social media platforms.
E
Echo Chamber – A digital environment where users are exposed only to information that reinforces their beliefs, often due to algorithms.
Extended Reality (XR) – An umbrella term for AR, VR, and Mixed Reality (MR), blurring the lines between the digital and physical worlds.
F
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) – Anxiety caused by seeing others' online experiences and feeling left out or inadequate.
Filter Bubble – A personalized digital environment where algorithms curate content based on user preferences, limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.
Flaming – Hostile and aggressive online behavior, often seen in comment sections, forums, and social media.
Freemium Model – A pricing strategy where basic digital services are free, but users must pay for advanced features.
G
Gamification – The application of game-like elements in non-gaming contexts, such as education or marketing, to increase engagement.
Generation Alpha – The first fully digital-native generation, born into a world dominated by AI, social media, and smart technology.
Ghosting – Suddenly cutting off all online communication with someone without explanation.
H
Hacktivism – The use of hacking techniques for political or social activism.
Human-AI Interaction – The ways in which people engage, collaborate, or depend on artificial intelligence in daily life.
Hyperconnectivity – The excessive use of digital communication tools, leading to constant online availability.
I
Influencer Culture – The rise of social media personalities who impact trends, opinions, and consumer behavior.
Infomania – The compulsive need to check digital devices for new information, emails, or notifications.
Internet of Things (IoT) – A network of interconnected smart devices that collect and exchange data.
Internet Trolling – The act of deliberately provoking or upsetting people online for amusement or reaction.
M
Metaverse – A virtual world where users interact in real-time, often through avatars, VR, or digital economies.
Misinformation – False or misleading information spread online, sometimes unintentionally.
Multitasking Myth – The misconception that digital multitasking improves efficiency, when in reality it often reduces productivity.
N
Neurohacking – The use of digital tools, such as brainwave tech or AI assistants, to enhance cognitive functions.
Neuromarketing – The study of how digital content influences consumer behavior through psychological triggers.
Nomophobia – The fear of being without a mobile device or not having access to the internet.
O
Online Disinhibition Effect – The tendency for people to act more aggressively or openly online due to perceived anonymity.
Overchoice – The psychological overload caused by too many digital options, leading to decision paralysis.
P
Parental Controls – Digital tools used by guardians to monitor and restrict children's online activity.
Parasocial Relationships – One-sided emotional attachments to influencers, celebrities, or fictional characters online.
Privacy Paradox – The contradiction between users’ desire for privacy and their willingness to share personal data online.
Psychographic Profiling – The analysis of users' digital behaviors and preferences to target them with personalized ads.
R
Reality Distortion Effect – The influence of social media and AI in shaping perceptions of reality.
Revenge Porn – The non-consensual sharing of intimate images or videos online as a form of harassment.
Robo-Ethics – The study of ethical considerations surrounding AI and automation.
Rubber Band Effect – The tendency for people to temporarily detox from digital devices but quickly revert to old habits.
S
Screen Fatigue – Physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive screen exposure.
Selfie Dysmorphia – A distorted self-image influenced by filtered selfies and digital beauty standards.
Smartphone Zombie (Smombie) – Someone so engrossed in their phone that they are unaware of their surroundings.
Social Credit System – A controversial concept where individuals’ digital behaviors influence their access to services, often discussed in relation to China’s system.
T
Technoference – The disruption of personal relationships due to excessive technology use.
Technostress – Anxiety or burnout caused by overwhelming digital interactions and constant connectivity.
TikTok Brain – The impact of short-form content on attention span and cognitive processing.
V
Viral Loop – A self-reinforcing cycle where digital content spreads exponentially through social sharing.
Virtual Reality (VR) – A fully immersive digital experience that simulates real or fictional environments.
Virtue Signaling – Publicly expressing opinions online to gain social approval rather than genuine advocacy.