In an era where TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have become a part of children and teenagers’ daily lives, many families are starting to ask, “Do these short clips affect our children’s brains?” Recent research from Tianjin Normal University in China provides a shocking answer, finding that addiction to “short clips” may impact brain structure and function. This could lead to problems with attention, emotions, and behavior in children and adolescents.
The Impact of Short Clips on the Brain: Research Findings
Researchers studied a sample group of 111 participants aged 17–30 who regularly used short video platforms such as TikTok and Douyin. Using MRI brain scans, they analyzed changes in brain structure and function.
1. Changes in Brain Structure
The study found that individuals addicted to short clips showed an increase in gray matter volume in the orbitofrontal cortex and cerebellum regions, which are related to reward processing, decision-making, and emotional regulation.
2. Abnormal Brain Function
Those addicted to short clips also showed increased brain activity in areas associated with emotional control and processing, which may reflect decreased regulation of thoughts and emotions.
3. Impact on Self-Control and Emotions
Children and teenagers who watch too many short clips tend to have problems with self-control and emotional regulation, which may lead to long-term behavioral and mental health issues.
4. Short Clip Addiction and Feelings of Envy
The research also found that “dispositional envy” is a psychological factor linked to short clip addiction. Those who are prone to feeling envy when seeing content that showcases a good life or success tend to spend more time watching short clips. This may serve as a coping mechanism to escape feelings of inadequacy.
Vulnerability During Adolescence
Genetic analysis revealed that over 500 genes are associated with the brain changes found in individuals addicted to short clips. These genes play a key role in neuron communication and brain connectivity, many of which are particularly active during adolescence, making this developmental period especially vulnerable to addictive behaviors.
Impact on Sleep and Attention
Continuous viewing of short clips can disrupt the sleep cycle of children and teenagers. A brain that is constantly stimulated cannot relax immediately when it’s time to sleep, resulting in difficulty falling asleep, restless sleep, and insufficient rest. This may lead to problems with attention and emotions the following day.
Summary for Parents
- Continuous viewing of short clips: May affect brain structure and function in areas related to emotional regulation, attention, and decision-making.
- Envy: A factor that may increase the risk of short clip addiction, especially in children who tend to compare themselves to others.
- Adolescence: A vulnerable period for the effects of short clip addiction due to brain changes and gene activity.
- Sleep and attention: Watching short clips before bedtime can disrupt sleep and affect attention the next day.
Guidelines for Caring for Your Child in the Digital Age
- Set screen time limits: Establish clear boundaries for short clip viewing and encourage other non-screen activities.
- Communicate and build understanding: Allow your child to express their feelings and help them understand the effects of media use.
- Encourage real-world activities: Engage your child in activities like reading, sports, or art to support brain and emotional development.
- Be a good role model: Demonstrate mindful and balanced media use to set an example for your child.
Although short clips last only a few seconds, their impact on your child’s brain can last a lifetime. Caring for and monitoring your child’s media habits is crucial and should not be overlooked by parents.
Originally published on theAsianparent Thailand
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