Alexander T.R. Sharpe, Ian Tyndall, Dylan Poulus, Emmanuel A. C. Obine, Benjamin T. Sharpe
Purpose This paper aims to synthesise and critically review empirical research on doomscrolling, the compulsive consumption of negative online content and its relationship with mental health and well-being. The review clarifies conceptual definitions, examines theoretical perspectives and evaluates emerging intervention strategies to inform future digital mental health research and practice. Design/methodology/approach A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Seventeen empirical studies were identified through systematic database searches and screened according to predefined inclusion criteria. Extracted data were charted and synthesised narratively to highlight conceptual trends, theoretical frameworks, methodological limitations and research gaps. Findings Doomscrolling was commonly characterised as a habitual, compulsive behaviour reinforced by design features such as infinite scrolling and algorithmic content delivery. Theoretical explanations emphasised rumination, emotional exhaustion and intolerance of uncertainty. Across predominantly cross-sectional studies, consistent associations were found with anxiety, depression, stress and reduced resilience. One experimental study tested a “kindness-scrolling” intervention, showing only short-term affective benefits. Research limitations/implications Current evidence is limited by cross-sectional designs, self-report bias and conceptual inconsistency. Future studies should employ longitudinal and experimental designs, develop validated measurement tools and evaluate targeted interventions to establish causal pathways and support evidence-based prevention. Practical implications Findings underscore the need for digital well-being interventions addressing maladaptive coping, habit formation and algorithmic reinforcement mechanisms that sustain doomscrolling. Originality/value This review provides the first systematic synthesis of doomscrolling research, offering a conceptual foundation for future studies and the development of empirically informed digital mental health interventions.