InBits

In this episode we dive into ASMR! We discuss the ASMR, the similarities to other auditory and visual trends online. We focus on the content of videos that can induce ASMR, what makes them successful for ASMR-tists and the potential concerns that we might have from an online safety perspective. We review the research on our responses to ASMR triggers and our psychological responses behind why ASMR is the most watched content in 2025!  Resources and Episode Video Examples ASMR Reddit Vintage Jewelry Counter ASMR ASMR Role Play Examples Research Buechele et al., (2025)  Hozaki et al., (2025) Poerio et al., (2018) Poerio et al., (2022) Jiang et al., (2024) Greer et al., (2025)     

This episode offers an in-depth exploration of cyberbullying, examining its prevalence, impact, and the evolving nature of online harassment in Ireland and beyond. We discuss the importance of definitions, platforms, and behaviours that have changed, with a focus on the link between increased screen time and rising incidents. The episode also discusses the lasting psychological, educational, and social consequences of cyberbullying, Ireland’s legislative response including Coco’s Law, and essential strategies for prevention, resilience, and building positive school and online cultures. Resources Childline (ISPCC): Free, confidential 24/7 support service for children and young people up to 18. Call 1800 66 66 66, text 50101, or chat online at childline.ie. TackleBullying.ie: National anti-bullying initiative providing resources and advice for parents, children, and teachers. SpunOut.ie: Youth information website with articles on bullying and mental health; offers free 24/7 text support—Text SPUNOUT to 50808. TeenLine: Active listening service for young people, call 1800 833 634 (24/7) Pieta House: For crisis mental health support and suicide prevention, Free 24/7 helpline: 1800 247 247. Research Bullying and cyberbullying studies in the school‐aged population on the island of Ireland: A meta‐analysis (Foody et al., 2017) National Survey of Student Experiences of Bullying in Higher Education (2023) ISPCC National Report On Cyberbullying

This episode explores how extremist ideologies spread online and offline, who is most vulnerable to radicalization, and the pathways that lead people into — and sometimes out of — extremist communities. We discuss the role of social media, traditional media, and even bots in amplifying harmful narratives, as well as the psychological and social vulnerabilities that make individuals more susceptible. We break down the stages of radicalization, from initial uncertainty to community immersion and, in rare cases, violent action. We also considers the impact on families and communities, and what can be done to build resilience and support people away from extremist beliefs.   Content Warning: We discuss real-world examples of radicalisation and violence that may be disturbing or frustrating for some listeners. Support resources: If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports The Samaritans Pieta House - Suicide and Self-harm Resource Other helpful resources https://www.factchecking.ie/  European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) https://www.medialiteracyireland.ie/training-development/    Research Global Witness - reports on bot acticvity and disinfomation online Scrivens, R. & Conway, M. (2019). The roles of ‘old’ and ‘new’ media tools and technologies in the facilitation of violent extremism and terrorism Borum, R. (2010). Understanding Terrorist Psychology Schuurman, B. & Carthy, S. L. (2025). Citizens, Extremists, Terrorists: Comparing Radicalized Individuals with the General Population Booth, E. et al. (2025). Conspiracy, misinformation, radicalisation: understanding the online pathway to indoctrination and opportunities for intervention

In this episode, we explore the complex and often contradictory ways we present ourselves online. Are we the same person across Instagram, LinkedIn, and real life? Do we craft idealized versions of ourselves—or does the digital world give some of us a chance to finally be who we truly are? From psychological theories of the self to why selfies spark moral panic (and who they target), we dive into the motivations behind online self-presentation. We discuss how authenticity affects well-being, why platforms like BeReal are seen as more “genuine,” and how your sense of identity may shape the way you present yourself on different apps. We also touch on professional identity, performative posting, and whether “humble bragging” ever really works. Ultimately, we’re asking: What does your online presence say about your offline self—and what does it say about all of us?   Support resources: If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are  not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports   Key Papers: Can You See the Real Me? Activation and Expression of the “True Self” on the Internet Self-concept clarity and online self-presentation in adolescents.  The Relationship Between Self-Concept and Online Self-Presentation in Adults Authentic self-expression on social media is associated with greater subjective well-being Charlit Floriano 3d animation research project: Understanding Virtual Bodies – A Case for the Use of Simple & Stylized Avatars in Social VR

In today’s episode, we’re unpacking misinformation from a psychological angle. We’ll talk about what counts as misinformation and disinformation, How “fake news” thrives online, and the Psychological biases that make us vulnerable. The consequences of misinformation on behaviors and society and what’s being done to fight back—from legislation to digital literacy. Content Warning: We discuss real-world examples of misinformation in health, politics, and social issues that may be disturbing or frustrating for some listeners. Resources https://www.factchecking.ie/  European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO) https://www.medialiteracyireland.ie/training-development/  National Youth Council Report Research Kim et al (2023) Kim et al (2019) Rocha et al (2021)

In this episode, we unpack the psychology and motivations behind catfishing—the act of creating false identities online. We explore how online environments foster deception, how attachment styles and personality traits like psychopathy and narcissism play into catfishing behavior, and what impact this has on victims. Drawing from psychological theories, research studies, and real-world examples, this episode unpacks how anonymity, identity exploration, and emotional needs all intersect in the phenomenon of catfishing. Whether for attention, control, amusement, or exploitation, the reasons people catfish, and the effects it has, are more complex than you might expect. Content warning: sexual harassment/image based sexual abuse, manipulation and control, and psychological distress.   Support resources: If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports The Samaritans Pieta House - Suicide and Self-harm Resource   Key Papers: Anderson, A. P., Bryce, J., Ireland, C. A., & Ireland, J. L. (2019). A preliminary review of cyber-deception factors: Offerings from a systematic review. Salus Journal, 7(1), 88-107. Suler (2004). The Online Disinhibition Effect. Cyberpsychology and Behaviour.  Mosley, M. A., Lancaster, M., Parker, M. L., & Campbell, K. (2020). Adult attachment and online dating deception: A theory modernized. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 35(2), 227-243. Lauder, C., & March, E. (2023). Catching the catfish: Exploring gender and the Dark Tetrad of personality as predictors of catfishing perpetration. Computers in Human Behavior, 140, 107599. Moor & Anderson (2019). A systematic literature review of the relationship between dark personality traits and antisocial online behaviours. Personality and Individual Differences.   News stories: GAA Catfish podcast episodes 1 & 2 https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ADTwa9ipI0plNJA0NgtiB GAA Catfish podcast episode 3 https://open.spotify.com/episode/5QLi4OZ43Vuopj87kOYoF5   Aoibhin's story My catfishing nightmare: ‘I’m waiting for someone to sit across from me and start a date I don’t know I’m supposed to be on’   Adele Rennie https://bbc.com/news/articles/c4grwglgnxvo    

We debunk age-related biases. Learn why caution is key, and how with support, older adults can thrive in the digital world, minimizing online risks and maximizing tech benefits.  Resources and Links AARP Survey Broady et al (2010) - Comparison of older and younger adults’ attitudes towards and abilities with computers: Implications for training and learning Baldassar et al (2017) - Aging in place in a mobile world: New media and older people’s support networks Busch et al (2021) - Smartphone use amongst older adults Chatterman et al (2019) - Should AI-Based, conversational digital assistants employ social- or task-oriented interaction style? A task-competency and reciprocity perspective for older adults

In this episode, we discuss how persuasion manifests online. We focus on how persuasion is used on social media by influencers and how we process and understand persuasive messages. We also discuss how persuasion is used in misinformation and some strategies to counter false or misleading information!   Misinformation Resources  https://spunout.ie/life/privacy-security/fake-news/  HTML Heroes - https://heroes.webwise.ie/html-heroes/    Research Resources Principles of Persuasion - https://www.influenceatwork.com/7-principles-of-persuasion/  Source Credibility and Persuasive Arguements - https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/jebde-10-2022-0038/full/html  Elaboration Likelihood Model of Persuasion - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0065260108602142       

In this episode, we dig into why people troll, harass and gossip online and what makes it so common—from anonymity and online disinhibition to personality traits, from group dynamics to platform culture. We explore who trolls are, what motivates them, and how even ordinary people can get caught up in it. With real-life examples and research, we also look at how to tackle trolling and make the internet a kinder place. Content warning: sexual harassment, suicide, and psychological distress.   Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports The Samaritans Pieta House - Suicide and Self-harm Resource   Key Papers Suler (2004). The Online Disinhibition Effect. Cyberpsychology and Behaviour.  Rost, et al. (2016). Digital Social Norm Enforcement: Online Firestorms in Social Media. PLOS One.  Synnott, et al. (2017). Online trolling: The case of Madeleine McCann. Computers in Human Behavior.  Ng, et al. (2023). Does Instagram make you speak ill of others or improve yourself? A daily diary study on the moderating role of malicious and benign envy. Computers in Human Behavior.  Buckles, et al. (2014). Trolls just want to have fun. Personality and Individual Differences. Moor & Anderson (2019). A systematic literature review of the relationship between dark personality traits and antisocial online behaviours. Personality and Individual Differences. Dineva, et al. (2021). A review of organisational strategies to deal with trolls and their effectiveness. Internet Research. 

We take a deeper look at online harassment, particularly the rise and impact of trolling. Building on our online dating episode, we explore who is most affected, how it manifests, and the psychological toll it can take. Focusing on deliberate, harmful online behaviour meant to antagonise or disrupt, we unpack the different forms of trolling and why it’s become so widespread. This is part one of a two-part topic (because Nicola likes to talk – and this is a big topic to cover!).  The second episode will get into the causes of trolling – who are the trolls and why do they do what they do?  Content warning: sexual harassment, suicide, and psychological distress.   Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports The Samaritans Pieta House - Suicide and Self-harm Resource   Key Papers PEW Research: The State of Online Harassment DCU: Understanding Adult Experiences of Online Hate in Ireland – An Exploratory Survey The Impact of Online Abuse: Hearing the Victims’ Voice report – UK Aktar & Marrison (2019) The prevalence and impact of online trolling of UK members of parliament

What does social support mean to you? What are your social support networks online and offline? Do you share content for support or do you see people 'over share' content? How do you react?  This week’s episode focuses on the different ways and reasons why we seek support online and examines some of these questions across different age groups and online communities.  Online peer support for people with dementia Social media affordances of LGBTQIA+ expression and community formation The Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging (TILDA) and Loneliness Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are  not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports

This is Nicola's area of research so it turned into a two-part episode! This time we'll get into the darker side of online dating - abuse and harassment of different groups of people, why men send graphic unsolicited images.  Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are  not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports   Key studies: PEW Internet Online Dating report Mandau (2020) ‘Directly in Your Face’: A Qualitative Study on the Sending and Receiving of Unsolicited ‘Dick Pics’ Among Young Adults Oswald et al. (2020) I’ll Show You Mine so You’ll Show Me Yours: Motivations and Personality Variables in Photographic Exhibitionism Marcotte et al. (2021) Young Women’s Experiences With Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence From Male Strangers Salerno-Ferraro et al. (2022) Women’s and Men’s Reactions to Receiving Unsolicited Genital Images from Men  

Is online dating on the decline? In this episode we take a look at who is dating online, why, and what they're getting out of it (and a little bit on what they would rather not be getting out of it!).  This is Nicola's area of research so it turned into a two-part episode! Next time we'll get into the darker side of online dating - but this episode we're looking at some of the positives!  Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are  not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports   Key studies: PEW Internet Online Dating report Douglas Zytko & colleagues - Supporting Women in Online Dating with a Messaging Interface that Improves their Face-to-Face Meeting Decisions 

Are we addicted to our devices? In this episode we focus on addiction, when it is and isn't the right term to use. We look at our screen use, gaming and when or how we use our phones to identify problematic behaviour.    Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are  not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports The Samaritans HSE Alcohol and Health Resource Pieta House - Suicide and Self-harm Resource   Key Papers Gaming and Adolescent Agression Mental Health and Internet Use Screentime and Wellbeing

In this episode we focus on moral panics about technology use and how this is driven by media reporting and societal discourse. We break down the actual research behind some of these panics, and look at what we do know about how tech is impacting us.    Support resources If you have been affected by the content of this episode in any way, the supports at the link below may be of assistance. If you are  not in Ireland, please seek supports local to you.  Irish Health Service Executive mental health supports   Key papers & recommendations for reading Amy Orben: The Sisyphean Cycle of Technology Panics Campbell & colleagues: Evidence for and against banning mobile phones in schools:  A scoping review Amy Orben & Andrew Przybylski: The association between adolescent well-being and digital technology use    Book recommendation Pete Etchells: Unlocked: The Real Science of Screen Time (and how to spend it better)   Spurious correlations website

In Bits - The podcast that deconstructs our digital lives. Listen to Episode 1 - Moral Panic and Technology on Tuesday 25th March.