🧠⚙️ Dual Process Theory

How your brain runs on two systems and how Jolt helps you activate the right one!

Introduction

Dual Process Theory explains that human thinking is powered by two distinct systems:

System 1: Fast, automatic, emotional
System 2: Slow, deliberate, logical

System 1 is what drives you to open an app before realizing it.

System 2 is what helps you step back and ask, “Do I really want to do this right now?”

Most distractions come from System 1. Most good decisions require System 2.

The challenge? System 1 is faster and always ready to act first.

Why it matters to you

Every time you impulsively check your phone, bounce between apps, or scroll through content you didn’t plan to engage with, System 1 is in charge.

And because it’s effortless, your brain defaults to it, especially when you’re tired, stressed, or bored.

To truly change your screen time habits, you don’t just need motivation.

You need tools that interrupt System 1 and give System 2 a chance to respond.

How Jolt uses this science to help you

Jolt is designed to shift you from reaction to reflection; activating System 2 before habits take over:

1. Breathe In/Out Screen

A forced pause before accessing a blocked app slows you down just enough to re-engage deliberate thinking.
2. Scheduled Sessions

By planning focus blocks ahead of time, you take decisions out of System 1’s reach and put structure in System 2’s hands.
3. Medium & Hard Mode

When faced with a CAPTCHA or needing partner approval, your brain is pulled out of autopilot.

→ You’re asked to think, reflect, or collaborate and not just click.

System 1 wants comfort.

System 2 builds change.

Jolt creates space for both but gives you the final say.

🧠⚙️ Dual Process Theory

Introduction

Why it matters to you

How Jolt uses this science to help you

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