Why You See What You See: Understanding Algorithms

Ever noticed that once you watch one video on a topic, your whole feed fills up with similar content? Or that you keep seeing posts that make you feel a certain way, whether that is excited, angry, or anxious? That is not random — it is the algorithm doing exactly what it is designed to do. Understanding how it works puts you back in control.

What an algorithm actually is

An algorithm is a set of instructions that a computer follows to make decisions. On social media, the algorithm's job is to decide what to show you next. It does this based on signals: what you watch to the end, what you like, what you comment on, how long you pause on something, what you search for. Every interaction you have teaches the algorithm more about what keeps you on the platform.

Why algorithms push extreme content

Content that triggers strong emotions — outrage, fear, excitement, desire — tends to get more engagement than calm, balanced content. Algorithms notice this and show more emotionally intense content because it keeps people scrolling longer. This is why your feed can gradually shift towards more extreme versions of whatever you were originally interested in. Researchers call this 'rabbit-holing'. You can end up far from where you started without realising how you got there.

Taking back control of your feed

You can actively reshape your algorithm. Watch content you actually want to see — the first few seconds count. Use the 'not interested' or 'see less like this' options when content appears that you do not want. Actively search for and follow creators whose content reflects what you want to see more of. Take breaks — when you return after a few days, the algorithm has less data to work with and your feed may feel fresher. Some people periodically clear their watch history or start a new account to reset entirely.

Algorithms and your mental health

If you have ever noticed that certain platforms make you feel worse after using them, the algorithm may be part of the reason. Body image content, anxiety-related posts, and comparison triggers can build up in a feed without you making a deliberate choice to see them. Doing a periodic audit of your following list and resetting what you engage with can make a meaningful difference to how you feel after using the platform.