In today’s world, many of us are familiar with the allure of short video platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. With their quick bursts of entertaining content, it’s easy to get swept away in the cycle of endless scrolling.
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Procrastination as a consequence of short videos
Putting off important tasks can be a challenge for many, and short videos might contribute to this habit. Delaying responsibilities often leads to frustration or worry, making it harder to stay on track. Research suggests that different types of internet use are linked to procrastination, though there is still much to learn about how short-form videos specifically play a role. Some studies indicate that watching too many short videos may directly or indirectly influence task avoidance, partly by affecting concentration (Xie et al., 2023). [b] [c]
How short videos affect attentional control
One key concern with constant scrolling is its effect on attention. The ability to focus without getting distracted is essential for daily activities, yet frequent exposure to short videos may make it harder to maintain. According to some studies, those who are more prone to boredom tend to struggle with staying attentive, making them more likely to be drawn into the fast-paced nature of these videos (Xie et al., 2023). [a] [h] [d]
Unlike other types of internet habits, short-video consumption presents unique challenges due to its rapid, engaging format. Some individuals who spend excessive time on these platforms may experience cognitive difficulties, which could make everyday tasks more challenging. Researchers have also observed that watching television shows with frequent shifts in focus may make concentrating on other activities more difficult (Xie et al., 2023). [a] [h] [d] [e]
The rise of digital life
The internet has reshaped how people seek information, interact, and manage their social presence. This shift has become even more pronounced with the widespread use of smartphones (Firth et al., 2020). [f]
As digital engagement increases, its effect on attention, memory, and cognitive functions is gaining more attention in research. While the full impact is still being explored, studies suggest that regular interaction with online platforms may influence how people process and retain information. The constant stream of digital content could play a role in shaping focus and decision-making habits (Firth et al., 2020). [g]
Finding the right balance
Breaking free from endless scrolling may not be easy, but being aware of its potential effects on focus is the first step. While short videos offer quick entertainment, finding balance in digital habits can help maintain attentional control and support productivity. Small changes, such as setting time limits or engaging in activities that require sustained focus, may make a difference. As research on digital consumption continues, exploring mindful ways to interact with technology could be key to preserving concentration in an increasingly fast-paced world (Firth et al., 2020). [f] [g]
Sources:
Firth, J. A., Torous, J., & Firth, J. (2020, December 17). Exploring the Impact of Internet Use on Memory and Attention Processes. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(24). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17249481
Xie, J. (2023, December 15). The effect of short-form video addiction on undergraduates’ academic procrastination: a moderated mediation model. Frontiers in Psychology, 14(14). https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1298361
References:
a) Results revealed that short-form video addiction not only directly impacted academic procrastination but also placed an indirect effect on academic procrastination through attentional control. Furthermore, the mediating effect of attentional control was contingent upon individuals’ boredom proneness. Higher levels of boredom proneness weakened the impact of short-form video addiction on attentional control (Xie et al., 2023)
b) Academic procrastination is one of the negative constructs that could be detrimental to academic success. To be specific, academic procrastination is defined as the act of failing to complete academic tasks that should be done properly, often accompanied by emotions such as anxiety (Xie et al., 2023)
c) Studies have shown the relationship between various forms of internet addiction and academic procrastination, yet little is known about the impact of short-form video addiction on academic procrastination. Based on the existing evidence, we aimed to examine the direct and indirect effect (attentional control) of short-form video addiction on academic procrastination and explore how personality traits (boredom proneness) cloud affect this relationship. (Xie et al., 2023)
d) Compared to other specific internet addictions, considering the design and traits of short-form video, individuals with short-form video addiction are vulnerable to cognitive impairment, which could negatively impact their academic outcomes. Hence, attentional control emerged as a distinctive mediator.(Xie et al., 2023)
e) Studies have found that exposure to television shows, characterized by high arousal and quick change to focus, could impair capacity to maintain concentration on other tasks(Xie et al., 2023)
f) In recent years, the internet has become an integral aspect of everyday life for most adults and adolescents [1,2], producing a global shift in how people search for and share information, connect with one another, obtain social recognition and rewards, and acknowledge social status. This has become particularly pronounced with the rise of smartphone technologies, which offer constant internet access and encourage individuals to remain always connected to the online world.(Firth et al., 2020)
g) Whereas the effects of internet use on the brain are not yet fully understood, there is convergent evidence from multiple fields that our extensive interactions with this novel feature of society could influence our attention, memory, and other aspects of cognition. (Firth et al., 2020)h) Individuals high in boredom proneness are also more likely to have problems related to low attentional control, including low sustained attention and increased symptoms of ADHD. Thus, compared to college students with low boredom proneness, those with high boredom proneness could be predisposed to low attentional control, leading to higher vulnerability to short-form video proneness (Xie et al., 2023)
