CentralReach “ABA On Call” Season 7 Ep 5: Why Apps Are Addictive: How Tech Companies Exploit Behavior ABA On Call podcast

Content provided by CentralReach. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by CentralReach or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

ABA on Call »
CentralReach “ABA On Call” Season 7 Ep 5: Why Apps Are Addictive: How Tech Companies Exploit Behavior

6d ago 32:27

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of ABA On Call, Rick and Doug dissect the behavioral science behind app design, revealing how tech companies use variable reinforcement schedules to hijack user behavior and drive compulsive engagement. Drawing from core principles of behavior analysis, they explore how seemingly harmless interactions, such as likes, swipes, and notifications, are systematically engineered to reinforce usage patterns. The conversation moves beyond theory into the ethical minefield of digital design, especially its impact on children, teens, and vulnerable users. With examples ranging from red-dot alerts to algorithm-driven content loops, the hosts challenge behavior analysts to confront the weaponization of reinforcement and consider their role in advocating for more ethical technology.

To earn CEUs for listening, click here, log in or sign up, pay the CEU fee, + take the attendance verification to generate your certificate! Don’t forget to subscribe and follow and leave us a rating and review.

Show Notes:

A Wall Street Journal investigation

64 episodes

#Science #Fitness #Social Sciences #Mental Health #CentralReach #Appliedbehavioranalysis #Precisionteaching #ABA #Behavior