User engagement is a modern synonym for addiction?

The article highlights how user engagement in digital applications and platforms often crosses the boundaries of healthy usage, leading to addiction. The author points out that many companies design their services to maximize the time users spend online, which can have negative consequences for mental and emotional health. Techniques such as notifications, activity rewards, and gamification elements are used to keep users engaged. Increasing user engagement often becomes a priority for developers, even if it can lead to addiction problems. The author calls for a more ethical approach to application design, advocating for services that support user wellbeing rather than merely attracting and trapping them.