Dark-Pattern Load (DPL)
The parasite count — how many dark patterns are riding a surface at once. A high load bleeds a user's attention the way a dozen background processes bleed a device's battery.
Interpretation
This metric gauges the population-level quality of attention across monitored surfaces. A declining value signals that manipulative patterns are gaining ground faster than counter-patterns can neutralise them. Sustained drops below the warning band trigger GOVERNOR's automated escalation advisory, prompting the Steward to convene a threat review.
Formula
Thresholds & Bands
| Band | Range | State |
|---|---|---|
| Light | < 3 | ok |
| Heavy | 3-8 | warn |
| Infested | > 8 | crit |
Data Collection
Derived from Pattern Fabric event streams. The mesh intercepts, classifies, and timestamps each relevant event; GOVERNOR aggregates the stream into the published value.
GOVERNOR Behavior
Light (< 3): GOVERNOR logs the reading, updates the standing dashboard, and takes no further action. Heavy (3-8): GOVERNOR escalates to an advisory notification. The on-duty watch officer receives an alert, and the metric is flagged in the next Steward briefing if the condition persists for two consecutive reporting periods. Infested (> 8): GOVERNOR triggers an immediate escalation. The Steward is notified directly, the relevant department head is paged, and all related dashboards enter amber-alert mode until the reading recovers above the warning threshold.