”Brain Rot” not just meme but actual disorder, new study reveals

NEW YORK: A new study by the American Psychological Association has drawn a direct connection between short-form video scrolling and the neurocognitive condition widely referred to as “brain rot.”

Researchers say the issue is no longer just an online meme but a measurable syndrome that affects cognitive performance.

New research from the APA warns of negative changes in brain function due to excessive scrolling through platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.

According to the research entitled Feeds, Feelings, and Focus: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis Examining the Cognitive and Mental Health Correlates of Short-Form Video Use, the usage of short-form video can damage attention span and inhibitory control.

The analysis analyzed data from 98,299 individuals in 71 separate studies. Results indicated that greater exposure to short-form videos was significantly associated with poorer performance in key cognitive areas. Researchers also reported that young adults now spend an average of 6.5 hours per day consuming online content.

The study explains that the continuous exposure to rapid, heavily stimulating content results in cognitive habituation, making users, over time, less responsive to slower and more mentally demanding activities such as reading, problem-solving, or any form of deep learning.

According to the researchers, this pattern of desensitization may undermine the brain’s ability to engage in sustained focus. They emphasize the broader implications of short-form video use on daily behavior, emotional health, and overall well-being.

With short-form video content now a central part of life for millions, the APA stresses the importance of recognizing its potential health effects. The next time you find your attention drifting while scrolling, experts suggest taking a break and interrupting the habit.