Attention Hijacking

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Attention Hijacking

[uh-TEN-shun hahy-JAK-ing]

What Is Attention Hijacking?

Attention hijacking refers to the deliberate design tactics used by apps and websites to capture and hold our attention, often interrupting our focus or planned activities with notifications, autoplay features, or engaging content loops.

Word Origins:

The term combines "attention" (from Latin "attendere" - to stretch toward) and "hijacking" (1920s aviation term for seizing control of a vehicle). The phrase gained popularity in the mid-2010s as concerns about manipulative tech design practices grew.

Common Hijacking Tactics

Autoplay features that keep content running

Push notifications at strategic times

Infinite scroll that removes natural stopping points

"Breaking news" alerts that create urgency

Personalized content recommendations that keep you engaged

Protecting Your Attention

Use app limits and focus modes

Disable non-essential notifications

Enable grayscale mode to reduce visual appeal

Create designated tech-free times and spaces

Practice mindful technology use

Attention Economy: The marketplace where businesses compete for users' limited attention

Digital Boundaries: Self-imposed limits on digital device use and accessibility

Dark Patterns: Design tricks used to manipulate users into specific actions

Notification Fatigue: Overwhelm from constant digital alerts and interruptions

Attention Hijacking