Instagram Makes Watching Someone Suffer Feel Like Helping

In the dark hours of the night, when most are asleep, a different version of me emerges on social media. This nighttime me devotes time to exploring parts of society that remain hidden during daylight hours. During an insomnia-ridden 3 a.m. episode, I stumbled upon the world of reborn dolls and their dedicated collectors. These grown women meticulously care for incredibly realistic baby dolls, tending to their every need as if they were real infants.

Watching such videos while my own children cried in the middle of the night left me feeling both fascinated and horrified. However, the comments section revealed a different side of the story. People were genuinely moved by the tenderness displayed by the doll caregivers and expressed admiration for the outfits and nurseries. Research has shown that reborn-doll collectors find comfort, community, artistic satisfaction, and an outlet for nurturing in these dolls.

For some, this online culture serves as a form of therapeutic engagement, particularly for those with dementia. While I initially dismissed my nighttime fascination as harmless curiosity, I began to question whether my brief engagement with these doll videos translated into genuine empathy or action. I pondered the implications of feeling moved without taking meaningful steps to alleviate suffering.

The next night, I shared my findings with friends and family, eager to enlighten them about this peculiar online phenomenon. However, I realized that my role as an informant did not equate to meaningful assistance. Witnessing another person's struggles, even from the comfort of my bed, did not equate to providing genuine help. As I continued to explore the diverse content available on Instagram, I found myself increasingly questioning the extent to which social media shapes my perception of the world and my own sense of responsibility.