A new study published by the American Psychological Association now links TikTok videos and Instagram Reels use to a decline in attention span and mental health. The report pooled findings from nearly 100,000 people across 71 studies and found a consistent pattern. It claims that people who spend a lot of time on fast, snackable video feeds such as TikTok and Instagram tend to show weaker attention control. They also have other mental difficulties.
Study suggests TikTok and Instagram reels cause cognitive decline
The new report by the American Psychological Association found that consuming short-form video content impairs attention and inhibitory control. In simple terms, people who scroll through many TikTok videos and Instagram reels often struggle to stay focused on slower, more demanding tasks. These could be anything like reading, concentrating at work, or studying.
Researchers explain that these effects fit with a long-standing theory in cognitive science. It states that rapid, highly stimulating stimuli may cause habituation. It lets the brain get used to fast rewards. As for the platforms, their reward loops reinforce impulsive and quick engagement. This combination is capable of reducing the ability to sustain information.
The review also ties heavy short-term form viewing to a range of mental health and life quality problems. These include poorer sleep, increased anxiety and loneliness, social isolation, and lower overall life satisfaction.
The report’s authors note that the short-form video format is now embedded across all major platforms. It can be seen on TikTok videos, Instagram reels, and YouTube shorts. Thus, its effects reach beyond any single app. They mention that more work is needed because these formats affect self-esteem and body image.
Originally reported by Preksha Sharma on Mandatory.
