Associations Between Excessive Short-Form Video Consumption and Attention, Anxiety, and Compulsive Behavior in Social Media Users

This research explores the psychological and neurological effects of excessive short-form video consumption,specifically reels, on dopamine regulation, attention span, and anxiety levels. By identifying excessive reel use as the independent variable, the study examines how it alters the brain’s reward system and impacts emotional well-being. The content’s fast-paced and highly stimulating nature may contribute to reduced attention span, dopamine dysregulation, and increased social comparison, leading to higher anxiety. Understanding these effects is crucial in an age where such content dominates social media consumption, especially among adolescents. The study aims to raise awareness about the long-term cognitive and emotional consequences of this growing digital habit.