Spot the Tricks

Welcome to Spot the Tricks

Thank you for being here. If you’ve ever been told to “just put your phone down”, you’re definitely not alone. Here’s something most people don’t realise: finding it hard to stop isn’t a willpower problem.

We made this guide because so many of the teens we work with felt blamed for something that was designed to be hard. Behind every app are huge teams whose job is to keep you scrolling, watching and tapping. Once you know how those tricks work, you can start to spot them, and decide for yourself what you want screens to do for you.

Inside, you’ll find out who’s behind the screen, name the tricks, learn what they do to your brain, and notice how screens affect you. There are no lectures, and nobody’s saying screens are bad. Lots of good things happen online too. Go at your own pace, take what’s useful and leave what isn’t.

You’re not the problem. Now you get to see how it all works.

If something online has left you feeling really low, worried or unsafe, please tell an adult you trust. You can also report online bullying or harm to eSafety at esafety.gov.au. Kids Helpline is there any time on 1800 55 1800 (free, ages 5–25).

Thank you for spending time with this guide. We’d love to hear what was helpful and what could be better. Send your feedback to:

Gillian & NataliaPocket Psych