What is the Dorito theory?

Eating is more addictive than you realize.

How does this relate to social media and toxic relationships?

Despite being coined in the 90s, the slogan «Betcha’ can’t eat just one,» still applies.

We’ve all had the experience of going for one or two chips and winding up eating the whole bag.

It’s not just that they have a unique and irresistible flavor, there’s something more to it, and that’s where the ‘Dorito theory’ comes in. So what is it?

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Before delving into the Dorito theory, it’s worth highlighting some important facts about these popular chips.

This snack is a fried corn tortilla chip with an addictive cheese-flavored powder covering it.

Its triangular shape comes from the original method of slicing tortillas. They have been produced since 1964, so they will celebrate their 60th anniversary this year.

Two years later, in 1966, Doritoes were launched nationwide, making them the first tortilla chip to be sold across the United States.

What you didn’t know about the Dorito theory

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Although it’s called the Dorito theory, it should be clarified that it applies to any type of junk food.

According to USA Today, a viral video on TikTok compared eating chips to other addictive behavior.

The theory says that «eating potato chips is addictive because the peak of the experience is when you’re tasting it, and not after.»

«There’s nothing that exists actually once the experience is done.» This keeps us coming back for more.

It’s not just about chips

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The conclusion on TikTok was: «Experiences that aren’t truly satisfying are maximally addictive.»

However, this isn’t just true for chips. In fact, it’s true in ways we can’t even imagine.

One of them is our addiction to social media, such as TikTok, and the time we spend watching one video after another.

Moreover, it is also reflected in the patterns of toxic relationships that we can’t get out of.

What do psychologists say about the Dorito theory?

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Experts may not have heard it called the Dorito theory before, but they agree with the concept.

Psychologist Reneé Carr weighed in on the trend.

«Not experiencing satiation when engaging in a particular activity or in a relationship can influence you into staying in a situation that is not truly satisfying, not healthy and not happy.»

This is all too common.

Is it possible to be completely satisfied?

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USA Today, points out it’s important to consider a few things regarding the Dorito theory.

In many aspects of our lives, we experience gratification that lasts only a few seconds or perhaps minutes.

This applies to everything from social media likes to compliments from acquaintances.

«Because you experience just enough satisfaction, we mistakenly think that full satisfaction is possible – leading us to stay longer or invest more energy unnecessarily,» Carr says.