Rising Tendencies of Overindulgence in YouTube, TikTok, and Short Video Platforms Among Young Adults
In the digital age, short video platforms like YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Instagram Reels have become increasingly popular among emerging adults. However, recent studies suggest that excessive use of these platforms can lead to Short Video Addiction (SVA), a term used by researchers to describe uncontrolled use of such platforms.
The long-term effects of SVA on the brain and mental health of emerging adults can be significant. A study published in NeuroImage journal in 2025 found that SVA can impact brain functioning, leading to increased reward processing and decreased top-down cognitive control. This can result in impulsivity, poor decision-making, and altered brain activity in regions responsible for evaluating rewards and guiding actions.
Furthermore, SVA is associated with higher risk-taking tendencies, greater sensitivity to loss, and a heightened sensitivity to video cues, according to a study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience in 2025. This can lead to engagement in risky behaviors, potentially affecting mental well-being and stability.
High-intensity consumption of short videos can also impair attention, sleep, and mental health, increasing the risk of depression. A study in Computers in Human Behavior in 2025 consistently showed that young adults often struggle to detect misinformation on digital platforms, despite expressing high confidence in their ability to do so.
The compulsive urge to watch videos can lead to disruptive sleep, neglecting personal responsibilities, and diminished interest in offline activities. In a 2023 report by Capitol Technology University, it was found that approximately a fifth of TikTok videos contain significant misinformation.
Emerging adults are advised to vet information and prioritize offline activities to prevent excessive use of short-video platforms and potential negative effects on brain functioning, emotions, and behavior. Those with significant struggles with SVA may find help from a mental health professional who is well-versed in treating SVA.
It's important to note that while SVA shares some characteristics with traditional addictions, its unique digital nature requires distinct approaches to understanding and addressing its long-term effects. Having consistent and scheduled times to view short videos is the antithesis of impulsive use and can help prevent SVA among emerging adults.
Short-video platforms offer emerging adults the opportunity to access unlimited information and connect with the world, but for some, the rapid consumption of personalized content can lead to excessive use and potential negative consequences. The producers of short videos on platforms like YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Instagram Reels are usually not rewarded by the quality of their content but rather by the number of consumers, leading to a high temptation to sensationalize and exaggerate reality.
In conclusion, while the digital world offers numerous benefits, it's essential for emerging adults to be aware of the potential risks associated with excessive use of short-video platforms. Early intervention strategies can help mitigate potential long-term impacts on mental health and brain function.
- Science has found that Short Video Addiction (SVA), a result of excessive use of platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, can impact mental health significantly.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, a study published in NeuroImage journal in 2025 noted that SVA affects brain functioning, leading to increased reward processing and decreased top-down cognitive control.
- Technology, especially short video platforms, plays a crucial role in education-and-self-development, but can also lead to mental-health issues if misused, as suggested by a 2023 report by Capitol Technology University.
- Short-video platforms, including YouTube Shorts, TikTok, and Instagram Reels, offer entertainment and access to information, but their allure for immediacy and personalized content can potentially lead to SVA, necessitating mental-health interventions for some emerging adults.
