“Brain rot” from short-form videos is now a scientific fact: APA study

The popular concept of “brain rot,” which describes the decline in cognitive function due to endless scrolling, has received scientific confirmation. Researchers from the American Psychological Association (APA) conducted a large-scale meta-analysis covering 71 studies and nearly 100,000 participants. The results proved that short-form video algorithms alter neural pathway activity.

How short-form video algorithms affect the brain

According to the researchers’ findings, regular consumption of short-form content leads to three primary changes:

• Inhibitory control failure: The brain loses the ability to stop in a timely manner. People lose track of time, planning to watch one video but ending up scrolling for hours.
• Decreased attention span: Rapid scene changes and the easy acquisition of “cheap” dopamine reduce the ability to maintain focus. Consequently, reading, studying, and complex work tasks are perceived by the brain as boring.
• Increased anxiety and burnout: An excess of negative information and constant comparison of oneself to others’ achievements lead to emotional burnout, insomnia, and elevated anxiety levels.

Algorithms have the most significant impact on adolescents and young adults, whose nervous systems are still in the process of development.

Ways to restore concentration

To reduce digital dependency and regain control over attention, three practical steps are suggested:

1. Switch to grayscale mode: Enabling the “grayscale” setting on your smartphone reduces the visual appeal of social media interfaces.
2. Keep the smartphone out of the bedroom: Replacing your phone with a standard alarm clock helps prevent scrolling before sleep and immediately upon waking.
3. A “home parking” spot for your gadget: Leaving your phone on a separate shelf when entering your home helps avoid carrying it with you from room to room.