Experts provide their opinion: You're certainly causing brain damage

As platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts dominate content consumption, researchers are raising alarms about their potential effects on mental function. Early studies support concerns over so-called brain rot, a term coined by Oxford University Press in 2024 to describe cognitive decline.

A major review in September analyzing 71 studies with nearly 100,000 participants linked frequent short-form video use to reduced attention span, weaker impulse control, and overall declines in cognitive performance. The findings, published in Psychological Bulletin, also associated heavy viewing with higher levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and loneliness.

Another review in October, covering 14 studies, reported connections between intensive short-form video consumption, shorter attention spans, and poorer academic outcomes.

Despite these concerns, experts emphasize that the long-term effects remain uncertain. James Jackson, a neuropsychologist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, noted society often reacts strongly to new technologies, citing historical examples from video games to controversial pop culture trends.

Jackson acknowledged that while overreaction should be avoided, worries about short-form video use are legitimate. Suggesting that concern is just old-fashioned grumbling is too simplistic, he said.

Current research indicates potential brain impacts, but more investigation is needed to identify vulnerable populations, the duration of effects, and underlying mechanisms. Rising ADHD diagnoses in the U.S.about 1 in 9 children by 2022further heighten concerns.

Keith Robert Head, a doctoral researcher at Capella University, highlighted overlaps between ADHD symptoms and risks from heavy short-form video use. He suggested researchers explore whether some ADHD diagnoses might reflect effects of prolonged short-form content exposure.

Global studies, including research from the U.K., Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, have similarly observed links between excessive video use, attention difficulties, memory problems, and mental fatigue. However, most findings show correlation rather than causation and are limited to short-term observations.

Dr. Nidhi Gupta, a pediatric endocrinologist studying screen time, warned that older adults may also be vulnerable due to less familiarity with technology and more free time. It may be premature to declare a crisis, but over the next decade, we may see patterns validating these concerns, she said.

Jackson also pointed out potential benefits of short-form videos, such as learning and community-building, but stressed moderation. When engagement interferes with healthier activities or social interactions, or reduces the ability to tolerate boredom, thats when it becomes problematic, he explained.

Author: Connor Blake