Feeds, Feelings, and Focus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Examining the Cognitive and Mental Health Correlates of Short-Form Video Use

https://psycnet.apa.org/fulltext/2026-89350-001.pdf

By Lan Nguyen, Jared Walters, Siddharth Paul, Shay Monreal Ijurco, Georgia E. Rainey, Nupur Parekh, Gabriel Blair, and Miranda Darrah

Short-form videos like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have taken over our screens, but how do they affect our minds? A new meta-analysis of over 98,000 participants across 71 studies found that heavier short-form video use is linked to lower attention and weaker self-control, along with higher stress and anxiety. These effects showed up in both youth and adults, suggesting a consistent pattern across age groups and platforms. While body image and self-esteem weren’t strongly tied to screen time, the study points to the need for more research on how different types of content influence well-being. This review offers a wake-up call for users, educators, and policymakers to think carefully about the cognitive and emotional costs of endless scrolling — and how to design healthier digital habits.