Pinterest often feels like a calm online space, praised for its aesthetics and lack of typical social media toxicity. However, it might be more involved in the very digital habits it seems to avoid. It poses as “anti-social media,” but a closer look reveals deeper patterns.
I write this as an active Pinterest user myself, deeply involved in its curated world. These observations are personal but may resonate widely. This isn’t just about Pinterest; similar patterns exist across Instagram, YouTube, and X. Each platform promises an escape—something “smarter” or “more authentic.” They all play a similar game, perhaps reflecting broader capitalist systems we all navigate.
10 Questions to Identify if Content is Controlling You
- Do you feel anxious if you cannot check social media for a few hours?
- Do you often find yourself mindlessly scrolling even when you have other tasks?
- Do you frequently compare your life to what you see online?
- Do you feel pressured to create content to fit a certain “aesthetic”?
- Do you spend more time consuming content than engaging in real-life activities?
- Does online content often dictate what you buy or wear?
- Do you feel a strong need for validation (likes, comments) on your posts?
- Do you find it hard to stop watching videos or browsing once you start?
- Has your mood been negatively affected by content you see online?
- Do you choose activities based on how “Instagrammable” they are?
If you answered “Yes” to 7 or more of these questions, it suggests that online content might be significantly influencing your thoughts and actions. This indicates a strong level of control.
Reclaiming Your Control
| Strategy | How to Implement | Benefit |
| Digital Detox Periods | Set specific times to avoid all screens. | Reduces dependence, clears your mind. |
| Curate Your Feed Actively | Unfollow accounts that trigger negative feelings. | Creates a more positive online space. |
| Set Time Limits | Use app timers or phone settings. | Manages screen time, prevents endless scrolling. |
| Engage Mindfully | Ask yourself, “Why am I here?” before opening apps. | Promotes intentional use, reduces mindless browsing. |
| Prioritize Real-Life | Plan activities that don’t involve screens. | Strengthens real-world connections, hobbies. |
| Question Aesthetics | Ask if a “core” truly reflects your style. | Fosters individuality, breaks conformity. |
| Disable Notifications | Turn off alerts for non-essential apps. | Reduces interruptions, less urge to check. |
| Practice Self-Compassion | Be kind to yourself about past habits. | Reduces guilt, supports positive change. |
| Create, Don’t Just Consume | Focus on creating content or new skills. | Shifts focus from passive consumption to active engagement. |
| Seek Offline Hobbies | Find interests away from digital devices. | Enriches life, provides alternative engagement. |
Also Read: The Impact of Social Networking Sites: Pros and Cons
What is Pinterest?
Pinterest is a social media platform. It works like a digital scrapbook or a virtual bulletin board. Users can discover, save, and organize visual content called “Pins.” These Pins are images or videos. They often link back to websites where the content originated.
People use Pinterest for many things. They find ideas for recipes, home decor, fashion, travel, and DIY projects. They can create “boards” to categorize their saved Pins. Users can also follow other users or boards they find interesting. It is largely a visual discovery engine.
The Power of Visual Content
The rise of “aesthetics” or “cores” on social media, especially among young women. It argues that these seemingly harmless visual styles have evolved into prescribed identities, dictating not just fashion but also behaviour, consumption, and even thought processes.
- Identity as a Choice of “Core”: The core concept forces users to pick a pre-defined identity. This replaces genuine self-discovery with a choice from a growing list of categories like “cottagecore,” “soft girl core,” or “clean girl aesthetic.”
- Prescribed Lifestyles: Each core comes with a rigid set of rules. For example, “soft girl core” dictates pastel clothes and specific accessories like a matcha drink and a “manifestation diary.” “Clean girl aesthetic” demands sleeked-back hair, minimalist gold jewellery, and strict adherence to neutral colours.
- Loss of Individuality: This trend erodes personal style and genuine self-expression. Instead of developing unique tastes, users conform to pre-existing moulds.
- Suppressed Critical Thinking: By adopting a core without question, individuals stop thinking creatively and independently. They merely adopt what is presented, leading to a loss of the ability to process, create, and express ideas authentically.
Also Read: Snapchat Dysmorphia: How Filters Distort Body Image & What to Do
Psychology of Online Engagement
| Psychological Factor | How it Works on Users | Platform Strategy |
| Dopamine Release | Users feel pleasure from likes/comments. | Notifications trigger quick gratification. |
| Social Validation | Users seek approval from others. | Likes, shares, and followers confirm acceptance. |
| Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) | Users worry about being left out. | Constant updates show what others are doing. |
| Curiosity | Users want new information or ideas. | Feeds offer endless, varied content. |
| Belonging | Users desire a connection with groups. | Communities and niche content create bonds. |
| Self-Expression | Users want to show their identity. | Profiles and posts allow personal display. |
| Instant Gratification | Users get immediate rewards. | Quick content, fast feedback keep users active. |
| Escapism | Users seek relief from daily stress. | Platforms offer a break from reality. |
| Cognitive Load | Users prefer easy-to-digest content. | Visuals and short text reduce mental effort. |
Also Read: Impact of Social Media on Youth
Pinterest and similar platforms, while appearing harmless, deeply affect our digital lives. They present “aesthetics” that seem harmless. However, these can set our identities and limit true self-expression. This leads to fitting in rather than being unique. Our online activity comes from things like pleasant feelings and not wanting to miss out.
