Research consistently identifies several "gratifications" that keep users engaged:

(2020): This paper argues that Twitter is liked because it is a "public space" that enables user-generated content and engagement more easily than other messaging platforms, fostering a unique sense of "co-presence". 2. Why People "Like" Twitter: Main Findings

(2024): Published in Nature , this study finds that while overall well-being might decrease for some, many users experience a significant increase in their sense of belonging when using the platform for social interaction.