Short video addiction damages attention, study shows

PanARMENIAN.Net - Media expert Samvel Martirosyan wrote on Facebook that frequent use of short video platforms such as Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts can negatively affect the brain and mental health, particularly by reducing the ability to concentrate.

Citing a recent international study, Martirosyan outlined key findings:

• Attention is the first 'victim': Overuse of short videos negatively impacts cognitive abilities, especially attention and inhibitory control. The brain adapts to fast dopamine rewards, making it harder to focus on long or demanding tasks.
• Increased stress and anxiety: Active use of these platforms is associated with heightened stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. There's also a confirmed negative impact on sleep quality.
• Not just teens: Contrary to popular belief, this dependency affects both younger and older users equally, the study shows.
• Loss of control matters more than time spent: The biggest issue isn’t how many hours one spends scrolling, but the loss of control—such as being unable to stop watching.

Martirosyan concludes: “Endless scrolling trains the brain to constantly lose focus. If you feel like concentrating is getting harder, get a grip on yourself.”