Smartphones, social media, and generative AI exploit variable-reward loops to trigger dopamine, norepinephrine, and cortisol releases, degrading attention and executive functions. Studies link heavy media multitasking to reduced anterior cingulate cortex gray matter and shorter screen-focus durations. AI’s hyper-personalized streams accelerate cognitive decline, creating security and resilience risks that demand transparency, notification controls, and time‑boxed device-free practices.
