Instagram was initially introduced to the world as a social media platform where we could share our lives with the world. However, over the years, Instagram has become something else entirely, with its confusing algorithm, endless scroll, and filtered FOMO. While many of us still love the app, there are a few things that we hate about it.
Instagram will have over 2 active billion users in 2024, which means this social media network influences the world.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss eight things that we hate about Instagram, from the negativity and cyberbullying to the elusive influencers and the chronic fear of missing out.
1. The Filtered FOMO
Indeed, Instagram constantly forces us to create stories that perform better in order to cling to its coveted “Explore” and “Recommended” pages.
While this has its advantages and can aid with exposure really, it can make the platform feel like a competition than a welcoming community. When we spend too much time focusing on the success of others, it can lead to an unpleasant feeling of missing out on opportunities for those who create.
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2. The Algorithm Abyss
One of the things that many Instagram users still complain about is the algorithm that they use. Gone are the days of chronological feeds. While it was initially meant to be more beneficial and relevant to individual users, it has now become more complicated than ever.
Instagram determines what appears on our feed depending on various elements, such as engagement rates and post-interaction. This means that our friends who we follow may not necessarily see the latest content we upload if we don’t engage consistently with them.
3. The Endless Scroll and Time Suck
Instagram’s addictive design and endless feed keep us glued to our screens, wasting precious hours on mindless scrolling.
The folks at Instagram know that their app is addictive, and they’ve made it even more so with the infinite scroll feature. The more you scroll, the more content you see.
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This can make it difficult to break away from the app, and it has been known to cause insomnia, lack of sleep, and other health issues.
Furthermore, when you’re scrolling through Instagram, you’re not doing anything productive, and it can easily lead to procrastination and wasted time.
4. The Positivity Paradox
While positivity is commendable, Instagram’s culture of forced cheerfulness can feel disingenuous. While it’s great that Instagram encourages positivity, sometimes it can be overwhelming.
With makeup brands promoting feel-good quotes and hashtags, and supermodels flaunting #BodyPos vibes, it can be challenging to distinguish between those committed to creating real emotional connections with their followers and those simply promoting sponsored content.
It can be challenging to discern what’s authentic when so much appears to be the result of created viewpoints or conscientiously arranged story templates.
5. The Influencer Hustle
Instagram influencers are the present generation’s celebrities. It’s a business that has grown up tremendously recently, with influencers attracting millions of followers and earning millions of dollars. But bearing witness to influencers embracing the so-called (or self-proclaimed) perfect lifestyle they portray online can sometimes seem more like a hustle than an artistic expression.
Everything they post is heavily filtered, edited, and curated, which can blur the line between what’s authentic and what’s manufactured and encourage a culture of materialism.
6. Trolls, negativity, and cyberbullying
Unfortunately, no matter how good of a platform Instagram may be, trolls and bullies will always exist. Trolls and bullies on Instagram can create a toxic and harmful environment that is negative for everyone. With Instagram’s users mostly being young adults and teenagers, this is a severe problem.
Instagram has taken steps to address harassment, but it’s an ongoing issue that must be kept in mind. It can contribute to feelings of sadness, despair, or even loneliness for users, which is concerning.
7. The FOMO-Fueling Features
Stories with disappearing content and disappearing likes. One of the most frustrating things about Instagram is the fear of missing out. With stories, stickers, filters, and disappearing content, Instagram has got users on the hook.
The need to stay connected and be up-to-date on everything and everyone in your followers’ list may cause anxiety and insecurity about how good of a connection you have with those in your life.
Furthermore, the removal of likes has caused concerns about how content will be evaluated, leading to a decrease in engagement as well as comparing ourselves to others’ popularity.
8. The Privacy Paradox
We share intimate details of our lives on Instagram, often unaware of how our data is collected and used. We might not even be aware of how much personal data we’re willingly giving away when we’re on Instagram. Instagram collects a lot of data on users, including our locations, interests, and even our behaviour patterns.
Even yet, it’s essential to protect yourself and be mindful of what you’re sharing on the app. Instagram’s privacy policies are frequently updated and should be read by users interested in keeping their privacy.
Conclusion
While Instagram has undoubtedly brought us closer together, it’s essential to understand what we hate about it. From applying filters that make ordinary photos appear unique to joining the race for likes and views, it’s essential to disengage from time to time and take a break from the following era, likes, and comments.
By understanding the concerns with Instagram, we may become smarter and more responsible users of the application, making it a better and safer place for everyone.
