DOPAMINE AND IT’S INFLUENCE ON STUDIES

ДОФАМИН И ЕГО ВЛИЯНИЕ НА ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯ

Менгпулатов Ибрагим

студент Медицинского института Российского университета дружбы народов им. Патриса Лумумбы (РУДН), РФ, г. Москва

Эмаимо Алисе Джон

научный руководитель, ассистент Медицинского института, Российского университета дружбы народов им. Патриса Лумумбы (РУДН), РФ, г. Москва

Abstract. Dopamine (DA) plays a vital role in reward and movement regulation in the brain. In the reward pathway, the production of dopamine takes place in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), in nerve cell bodies. From there, it is released into the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex.

Keywords: study, regulation, motivation, transmitter.

BACKGROUND

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, which fuels motivation, drives towards pleasurable experiences, and reinforces behaviors associated with rewards. While this intricate system is essential for survival, its inherent design can be exploited in the digital age, leading to distraction and decreased productivity.

Social media platforms, meticulously engineered to capitalize on our neurochemistry, provide a near-constant stream of dopamine-triggering stimuli. Every notification, like, comment, and share serves as a micro-reward, flooding our brains with dopamine and reinforcing the habit of checking and scrolling. This creates a powerful feedback loop, making it increasingly difficult to resist the allure of these platforms, even when we know we should be focusing on other tasks.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this article is to help students with regulating their dopamine baseline and not to fall in trap of easy pleasurable activities.

METHOD

The study explores a descriptive quantitative research method of study.  The survey will assess perceptions of 100 young adults.

CONCLUSION

The quest for productivity in the digital age is not about rejecting technology but rather about embracing it mindfully, leveraging its strengths, and mitigating its potential pitfalls.  By doing so, we can unlock our full potential, thrive in the midst of distraction, and navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape with wisdom and resilience.

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter often associated with pleasure and reward, plays сritical role in our lives than simply eliciting feelings of joy. This molecule serves as a linchpin in the intricate process of learning. From sparking motivation to solidifying memories, dopamine acts as the invisible hand guiding our pursuit of knowledge and mastery.

This exploration delves into the multifaceted role of dopamine in learning, examining its impact on motivation, reinforcement, memory, and ultimately, the very essence of what it means to acquire knowledge. We'll uncover how understanding the intricate dance of this neurotransmitter can empower us to optimize learning experiences, unlock hidden potential, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

In my survey, 111 people, who are mostly young adults 20+ were asked about their study habits and use of social media. Browsing the web has direct correlation with overall productivity of studies – more people use social media for instant gratification activities, and most importantly not so keen towards motivation to study. Below, is the analysis of our respondents.

Figure 1. Average age of our respondents between the age of 18-25

Figure 2. A chart showing how many years our respondents has been active on social media

Figure 3. An illustration of the average screen time

In figure 3, we can see about 54% of our respondents have over 5 hours screen time withing 24 hours. This means the screen time could be over 5 hours or even up to 8-10 hours depending on the individual. This means that screen time includes computer time, television time and even games has been included with the phone screen time.

Figure 4. An illustration of the scheme of balance nutrition

Figure 5. A chart showing the feeling and motivation study by respondents

DISCUSSION

The article is to shed light and help students to regulate their dopamine baseline and not to fall in trap of easy pleasurable activities.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Humans are inherently social creatures, wired for connection and belonging. Social media, in its ideal form, taps into this innate need, providing a platform for connection, communication, and community building. However, the reality often falls short of this ideal, as social media can become a breeding ground for comparison, self-doubt, and a relentless pursuit of external validation.

The feeds of social media often present a distorted view of reality, showcasing only the highlight reels of others' lives. This constant exposure to curated perfection can fuel feelings of inadequacy, envy, and a nagging sense that we are not measuring up. This, in turn, can lead to decreased self-esteem, increased anxiety, and a decline in overall well-being, impacting our ability to focus and be productive.

THE IMPACT ON LEARNING

Learning in the digital age presents both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges. The internet provides access to a vast ocean of information, offering endless possibilities for exploration and knowledge acquisition. However, this abundance of information can quickly become overwhelming, leading to information overload and a decline in our ability to process and retain information effectively.

The constant barrage of notifications, updates, and breaking news, fueled by the dopamine-driven need to stay connected, can disrupt our focus and impede our ability to engage deeply with learning materials. Our attention spans, already challenged by the fast-paced nature of the digital world, are further strained by the constant demands of social media, making it increasingly difficult to maintain the sustained focus required for effective learning.

STEPS TO PRODUCTIVITY

While the challenges presented by the interplay of dopamine, social media, and our neurochemistry are significant, they are not insurmountable. By understanding the forces at play, we can implement strategies to mitigate their negative effects and harness the power of technology for good.

1. Mindful Awareness: Cultivating awareness of our digital habits and their impact on our focus and well-being is the first step toward reclaiming our time and attention.  Tracking our screen time, identifying triggers for mindless scrolling, and becoming more conscious of the emotional impact of social media can provide valuable insights into our digital behaviors.
2. Intentional Engagement: Shifting from passive consumption to intentional engagement with social media can transform our relationship with these platforms. Curating our feeds, prioritizing meaningful connections, and setting limits on our social media time can help us reclaim control and ensure that our online interactions are enriching rather than draining.
3. Dopamine Detox: Periodically disconnecting from the constant stream of digital stimulation can help reset our brain's reward system and restore our sensitivity to dopamine. Engaging in activities that provide intrinsic rewards, such as spending time in nature, pursuing creative endeavors, or connecting with loved ones face-to-face, can provide a much-needed respite from the digital deluge.
4. Focus-Enhancing Techniques: Implementing techniques that promote focus and concentration can help us stay on track amidst the digital distractions.  The Pomodoro Technique, mindfulness meditation, and time-blocking strategies can be effective tools for enhancing focus, managing time effectively, and minimizing distractions.
5. Plan Your Day: Having a schedule plan in a calendar is a sure way to avoid mind from wandering around the screen. It effectively helps to set boundaries and enforces accountability.

Using Technology Productively

Technology, despite its potential pitfalls, holds immense power to enhance learning and productivity. By harnessing the power of the digital landscape intentionally and mindfully, we can unlock its potential for good.

1. Leveraging Educational Technology: Online learning platforms, educational apps, and digital resources offer unprecedented opportunities for personalized learning, skill development, and knowledge acquisition.  Exploring these resources strategically and integrating them into our learning journeys can enhance our understanding and expand our horizons.
2. Curating a Positive Digital Diet: Just as we carefully select the foods we consume to nourish our bodies, we can curate a positive digital diet to nourish our minds.  Seeking out informative, inspiring, and thought-provoking content online can stimulate intellectual growth, foster creativity, and expand our perspectives.
3. Building a Supportive Digital Community: Connecting with like-minded individuals online can foster a sense of belonging, provide valuable support, and inspire us to strive for excellence. Engaging in online communities centered around shared interests, passions, and goals can create a powerful network of support and encouragement.

CONCLUSION

The digital age presents both unprecedented opportunities and unique challenges. By understanding the interplay between dopamine, social media, and our neurochemistry, we can navigate this landscape more effectively, reclaiming our focus, harnessing the power of technology for good, and cultivating a more fulfilling and productive life. The quest for productivity in the digital age is not about rejecting technology but rather about embracing it mindfully, leveraging its strengths, and mitigating its potential pitfalls.  By doing so, we can unlock our full potential, thrive in the midst of distraction, and navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape with wisdom and resilience.