The Attention Trap: Short-Form Content and the Brain

It is easy to see why short-form videos are so addictive. They are quick, entertaining, and constantly rewarding, however that constant stimulation can have potential long-term effects for young people.

Studies by Xie et al. (2023) reveal that students who spend hours on short-form videos often struggle to concentrate on long tasks and procrastinate more. The videos’ fast pace gives the brain immediate rewards, training it to prefer instant gratification over sustained effort. Over time, this can make reading a book or completing a school project feel less satisfying than scrolling.

It is not just attention that is affected. Chew et al. (2025) found that heavy viewers of short-form content had slower reaction times and lower accuracy in tasks requiring focus, suggesting that the brain becomes tuned to short, flashy bursts of information rather than sustained thinking. Trendeline and Sadiku (2024) observed similar patterns in undergraduates. Students who watched more reels made more mistakes and performed worse on attention tests, which also translated to lower academic performance.

Memory can also be affected. Al-Leimon et al. (2025) showed that teens who spend a lot of time on TikTok or Reels often struggle with short-term and working memory because their brains are accustomed to rapid, constant stimulation. The consequences do not stop at schoolwork. Kee et al. (2025) found that excessive scrolling can disrupt sleep, create emotional instability, and even lead to academic setbacks.

For Gen Alpha, these patterns may start even earlier. Children as young as two are getting tablets and smartphones, making early exposure to short-form content a new norm. This means that the next generation could be developing habits of distraction and instant gratification before they even start school.

Understanding these effects is key. By recognizing the impact of short-form content on focus, memory, and learning, parents, teachers, and students can take steps to balance screen time with activities that encourage sustained attention and deep thinking. Short videos are fun, but the brain still needs time to rest, focus, and grow.