Short videos that have flooded social networks today are not as harmless as they might seem at first glance. A research team from Griffith University conducted a large-scale study to determine how watching vertical videos affects the psyche and cognitive abilities of users. The focus was on popular platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts, where short-form content attracts millions of views every day. The results are thought-provoking: the habit of fast information consumption may have serious consequences for cognitive health.
The analysis covered data from nearly one hundred thousand people across 71 independent studies. It turned out that the more time a person spends watching short videos, the harder it is for them to concentrate on complex tasks and control their impulses. Researchers note that this type of content literally ‘rewires’ the brain, diminishing one’s ability to maintain prolonged focus and self-control.
Loss of concentration
Scientists identified a clear link between the number of short videos watched and the decline in cognitive function. Attention and self-restraint—the very qualities essential for studying, working, and everyday life—are particularly affected. The more frequently a person turns to short videos, the harder it becomes to transition back to slower, more demanding activities.
The reason lies in the way the brain’s reward system works. Fast-paced, vivid, and constantly changing content stimulates dopamine production, creating a sense of pleasure and encouraging viewers to watch even more videos. Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to this level of stimulation, making regular activities seem boring and tiresome.
Psychological consequences
Immersion in the world of short videos doesn’t just reduce concentration. Research shows that active users of these platforms more often experience sleep problems, increased anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. Prolonged video watching can lead to social isolation, causing people to prefer virtual interaction over real-life connections.
Additionally, regularly consuming short-form content is associated with decreased life satisfaction. People start comparing themselves to the characters in these videos, often resulting in lower self-esteem and inner tension. Teenagers and young adults, for whom social media is an integral part of daily life, are particularly vulnerable.
Formation of addiction
Another alarming finding by scientists is that short videos can lead to addiction similar to gambling or eating disorders. Users are drawn back to the platform more and more often to get another “hit” of vivid impressions. This creates a vicious cycle: the more time spent watching, the weaker self-regulation becomes, making it even harder to break the habit.
As a result, people lose interest in more complex and rewarding activities like reading, sports, or face-to-face communication. Over time, this can negatively impact overall mental health and even lead to depressive symptoms.
Possible solutions
The study’s authors emphasize that their research is only the first step toward understanding the scope of the problem. The collected data may serve as a foundation for developing recommendations on healthier ways to consume short videos. It is important to learn to control the time spent on social media and consciously choose content that truly benefits you.
Experts advise alternating watching videos with other activities, prioritizing proper rest, and not neglecting real-life interactions. Only in this way can you maintain a balance between entertainment and real life without sacrificing your mental well-being.
In case you didn’t know, Griffith University is one of Australia’s leading research centers, specializing in interdisciplinary projects in psychology, medicine, and the social sciences. In recent years, the university has been actively studying the impact of digital technologies on human behavior and health, publishing its findings in respected international journals. Its scientific partners include top universities in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Thanks to this research, new approaches to preventing digital addictions and supporting mental well-being are being developed.
