Ethics code: IR.MUI.NUREMA.REC.1404.015
Health Information Technology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
Abstract: (5 Views)
Introduction: Doom Scrolling is the tendency to obsessively search for and review negative, sad, or anxiety-provoking news and information. The purpose of this review is to explain why Doom Scrolling occurs in the health field and to identify its definitions and concepts, its context and causes, and the factors that influence it.
Information Sources or Data: English sources were searched in ISI, Scopus, PubMed, Embase, ERIC, LISTA, Emerald, and Persian sources were searched in Magiran, SID, Ensani.ir, ISC, Irandoc, Noormags, CIVILICA, and the Elmnet search engine. Grey sources were searched in Google scholar, ProQuest, MLA, and Irandoc. 1185 articles were retrieved, and after screening, 50 sources entered the data analysis stage.
Selection Methods for Study: Regarding to the broad and exploratory nature of the topic, a scoping review method was used based on the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR reporting framework for systematic reviews.
Combine Content and Results: The findings showed health doom scrolling is an obsessive behavior with the aim of continuously studying negative news and information about health. This concept is a multidimensional phenomenon that is mainly formed in digital platforms and social networks and is influenced by the geographical context and social context. The reasons for the occurrence of this phenomenon include four general categories of health-related issues, technology issues, information issues, and environmental issues. The factors affecting of that can be classified into three main categories including health-related factors, information factors, and individual-social factors.
Conclusion: Doom scrolling is a threatening health behavior that results from the interaction of individual, psychological, and structural factors. Effective intervention requires a multilevel approach that includes promoting media literacy, strengthening psychological resilience, preventive interventions, and responsible policymaking in health information. The findings of this study can provide a base for future empirical research and the design of effective interventions.
Type of Study:
Review |
Subject:
Special Received: 2026/08/5 | Accepted: 2026/08/31