Question

As social creatures, we rely on connections with others for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Social media was initially designed as a way to help people more easily meet these needs. But as the popularity of social media grew, developers realized that they could design and iterate in a way that would keep us coming back for more, more often. Studies have shown that social media triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that signals pleasure to the brain. Just as we get a release of dopamine from eating something enjoyable such as an ice cream cone, the brain has a similar response when people respond favorably to a tweet or a post, similar to a reward. For some, this response may trigger a “dopamine loop.” The rush of creating a viral post feels good, so the author posts again, and again, and again, in the hopes of receiving the same reward. This behavior comes at a cost.
Question
Use the passage to answer the question.

From the evidence given, which inference can be made about the author’s point of view regarding social media?

(1 point)
Responses

The author thinks that social media may pose negative effects to users.
The author thinks that social media may pose negative effects to users.

The author thinks that social media is important for mental health.
The author thinks that social media is important for mental health.

The author believes that social media can increase social isolation.
The author believes that social media can increase social isolation.

The author believes that social media should be more closely monitored.

Answer 1

The author thinks that social media may pose negative effects to users.

Evidence: the passage describes how platforms are designed to keep people hooked, explains the dopamine “loop,” and concludes “This behavior comes at a cost,” indicating concern about harmful effects.