SPOTTING-DARK-PATTERNS5 MIN READ
The Pressure Chain Behind a Dark Pattern
Explain how interface choices create pressure, distort decisions, and produce measurable harm.
Use the pressure chain to explain why a small UI change can become a dark-pattern risk. Pressure Chain: From UI Move to Harm UI move contrast, default, timing, copy, friction Choice architecture changes User effect what feels easy, normal, urgent, hidden Autonomy narrows Business benefit more opt-ins, charges, retention, data Provider gains User harm money, time, privacy, regret, confusion Cost shifts to user Autonomy and expectation review Harm signal Business incentive Which critique best uses the pressure-chain lens?
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