Researchers Warn About the Dangers of Short Videos for Cognitive Functions

Researchers from Tianjin Normal University (China) conducted a study showing that constant consumption of short videos can negatively affect the brain, particularly in young people. The study involved 111 participants aged between 17 and 30, and the results revealed that those who were addicted to short videos exhibited structural changes in their brain, including an increase in gray matter in areas associated with reward processing, emotions, and decision-making.

This effect is linked to the development of "clip thinking" — a tendency to quickly process information without in-depth analysis, which impairs concentration and worsens long-term memory. Researchers emphasize that this can be particularly harmful for children and teenagers, whose brains are still actively developing.

Additionally, the study found that an enlarged orbitofrontal cortex, which is associated with feelings of satisfaction and reward, can lead to decreased self-control and emotional instability. This mirrors changes seen in people with drug addictions. Issues with concentration, memory loss, and emotional disorders, caused by excessive consumption of short content, are becoming an increasingly significant social problem.