The Happy Tech Lab
The Happy Tech Lab at Georgetown University dives into how our digital lives shape our health and happiness. Drawing on real-time data, large surveys, and cutting-edge analytics, Kushlev’s team tackles one big question: What are the hidden costs of our smart and useful digital devices? From pioneering machine-learning methods to crafting interventions that curb mindless scrolling, the lab’s work shines a bright light on the real-world impact of our tech habits—pointing the way to a healthier, happier digital future. And behind it all are a dynamic group of researchers and alumni who keep pushing the boundaries of what “well-being” can mean in the modern age.
Current Research
Does Social Media Cause Poor Mental Health in Youth?
The mental health of adolescents in the United States has seen a steep decline since 2011, roughly coinciding with the increasing popularity of social media and smartphones. But does social media have a causal impact on the mental health of adolescents or are concerns about the effect of social media on kids a form of public hysteria? In this study, we will conduct the first field experiment in 11–14-year-olds to examine whether, how, and for whom social media harms mental health. The project will generate a massive amount of data, including text data, that we will be making available to researchers. This project is sponsored through a generous R01 grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Does ChatGPT Increase or Hamper Human Creativity?
As generative AI systems, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT-4, become more prevalent in creative processes, they present a paradox: while these systems can enhance individual creativity, their widespread use poses a risk of reducing the diversity of creative outputs across groups of people—and humanity as a whole. We are currently exploring this paradox of the AI-driven homogenizing effect on creative content. A key contribution of our research is the development of the diversity growth rate, a novel metric that provides a dynamic and quantifiable perspective on how AI-generated content influences collective creativity.
Why Do People Use Their Smartphones More Than They Should?
Smartphone use has been shown to have negative effects on people's sleep, social interactions, mental health, and ability to focus. These negative impacts are frequently discussed in the media. However, despite widespread coverage, there appears to be little change in how individuals use their smartphones. This discrepancy raises important questions about the factors influencing smartphone usage patterns. We are currently investigating whether this persistent behavior stems from a lack of awareness of the negative effects, an underestimation of personal impact, or insufficient knowledge of available resources to manage smartphone use. By examining these potential explanations, we hope to gain insights into more effective strategies for promoting healthier digital habits.
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