The Decline of Social Media Engagement: Navigating AI Quality and User Fatigue

In recent years, social media platforms have become ubiquitous, leading to addictive user engagement. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. a notable shift may be underway, as highlighted by Cade Diehm, head of research at the World Ethical Data Foundation (WEDF). His predictions indicate that by 2026, users may begin to tire of these platforms, driven by a combination of low-quality AI-generated content, aggressive advertising, and mounting mental health concerns. This phenomenon, referred to as 'doomscrolling,' may see users seeking alternative sources for news, entertainment, and community interaction.

The term 'AI slop' has emerged to describe the low-quality content generated by artificial intelligence, which is beginning to saturate social media feeds. Research from companies like Kapwing reveals that over 20% of videos recommended to new users on platforms like YouTube are AI-generated and often lack the depth or relevance that users seek. This shift towards lower quality content has been linked to a broader decline in user engagement, particularly among younger demographics. The evidence compiled by Deloitte Australia underscores this trend, showing a measurable drop in overall media engagement, which is often tied to user dissatisfaction with content quality and its impact on mental well-being.

Diehm's analysis suggests that social media engagement peaked around 2022 and has since begun to decline, especially in regions such as Europe. The U.S. market remains relatively high, but the growing concerns about content quality and the influence of partisan ownership on social media platforms are prompting users to reconsider their habits. A significant factor in this transition is the increasing prevalence of aggressive advertising practices, which users find intrusive and distracting, further contributing to their desire to disengage.

This evolving landscape may signal a potential resurgence of editorialisation in media consumption. As users seek more trustworthy and quality content, there could be a renewed emphasis on curated and fact-checked information. The implications for the media ecosystem are profound, as content creators and advertisers may need to adapt their strategies to align with changing user preferences and expectations.

The decline in social media engagement represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the technology sector. Companies that can prioritize quality and ethical content production may find new avenues for growth, while those that rely on AI-generated content without maintaining standards may face diminishing returns. The WEDF's focus on the ethical implications of technology highlights the importance of addressing quality in content creation as a critical issue.

So where does that leave things? the forecast of declining social media engagement driven by user fatigue and AI content quality concerns paints a complex picture for the future of digital interaction. As users break their 'addictions' to doomscrolling, the media landscape may shift towards platforms that prioritize quality, trustworthiness, and user well-being. Navigating these changes will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders within the media and technology ecosystems.

Editor's note: This article was independently written by the Scoopliner Editorial Team using publicly available information.