Endless TikTok Scrolling May Be Shrinking Your Brainpower
- CNET
Jakarta, VIVA – In today's digital age, TikTok has become a go-to platform for entertainment and information. Millions of people spend hours scrolling through an endless stream of short videos, whether for fun, news, or educational content.
The app’s algorithm is designed to keep users engaged by constantly serving up fresh and captivating clips.
While this may seem harmless, experts warn that excessive consumption of short-form videos could have unintended consequences on brain function.
A study conducted by scientists from Tianjin Normal University in China and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), found that people addicted to short videos experience a decline in cognitive abilities.
They struggle with maintaining focus, retaining information, and learning new things.
When someone continuously watches short videos, their brain starts seeking instant gratification from easily digestible content. This leads to a dependency known as "TikTok brain" or "brain rot."
Logo TikTok.
- Twitter @TikTok
As a result, it becomes more difficult to concentrate on tasks that require prolonged focus, such as reading or studying.
Additionally, the study found that addiction to short videos can increase the risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
This is due to a lack of balanced brain stimulation and unhealthy social comparisons from the content being consumed.
To keep the brain healthy and functioning optimally, it’s essential to regulate social media use, especially short-form videos.
Some ways to do this include setting limits on screen time and using in-app reminders.
Redirect your attention to other activities like reading a book, exercising, or having in-person conversations with friends.
Engage your brain with stimulating activities, such as solving puzzles or learning a new skill. While short videos can be fun and entertaining, excessive consumption can negatively impact brain function.
By setting boundaries and maintaining a balanced approach to content consumption, we can enjoy technology without compromising our brain health.
