Dopamine
A neurotransmitter associated with the pleasure and reward system of the brain, encouraging us to engage in behaviors that are rewarding.
Design elements that reward users can boost engagement and motivation.
Gamification in apps can leverage dopamine to make routine tasks more enjoyable.
Continuous and unexpected rewards can keep users coming back, utilizing the variable reward schedule concept.
Social media platforms like Instagram utilize dopamine-driven feedback loops with likes and comments to encourage continuous engagement and content creation.
Ask Yourself
How can designers create a balance between rewarding users and avoiding overstimulation in digital experiences?
In what ways can the concept of dopamine fasting be applied to digital product design to prevent user burnout?
What are innovative ways to implement reward systems in digital products that cater to diverse user motivations?
Related Principles
endorphin
Natural painkillers produced by the brain that also contribute to feelings of pleasure, euphoria, and satisfaction.
acetylcholine
A neurotransmitter that plays an important role in arousal, attention, memory, and motivation.
melatonin
A hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles, often called the "sleep hormone," as it helps control the body's circadian rhythms.