Is your child’s attention on the reels?
Does your child start scrolling the reels as soon as he picks up the mobile phone? If yes, then it is not just a means of entertainment; This can become a habit that is negatively impacting their mental development. Recent research has shown that Instagram Reels, TikTok and other short-video platforms are affecting children’s ability to think and concentrate. According to the study, the continuity of short videos keeps the brain’s ‘reward system’ active, making it difficult for children to study or concentrate on any one task. Many major institutions have expressed concern on this issue. This begs the question: What changes do reels actually cause in children’s brains, and how can these be controlled?
Definition of ‘short attention span’
‘Short attention span’ means inability to concentrate on a task, book, study or conversation for a long time. A famous study by Microsoft found that the average attention span was about 12 seconds in the year 2000, but it has dropped to 8 seconds under the influence of smartphones and short videos. This period is also shorter than the average attention span of goldfish (9 seconds). Experts say that watching videos of 15 to 30 seconds activates the brain rapidly, due to which school classes or long conversations start appearing boring to children.
Brain’s reaction to watching reels
Researchers at China’s Zhejiang University studied the effects of short videos using neuroimaging techniques. MRI scans revealed that the ‘ventral tegmental area’ of the brain gets activated while watching Reels and TikTok videos, which leads to experiences of pleasure and reward. The continuity of new videos causes a rapid release of dopamine, which motivates children to visit the screen again and again. This process can gradually turn a habit into an addiction and weaken the ability to concentrate.
Concept of ‘TikTok Brain’
The Wall Street Journal calls this condition ‘TikTok brain’, which also applies to ‘Reels brain’. According to reports, the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision making and patience, develops by the age of 25. If a child becomes addicted to short-form videos during this critical development, his or her ability to concentrate and self-control may weaken.
American Psychological Association warning
The American Psychological Association (APA) has issued an advisory on children and teens’ social media use. According to the association, several behavioral changes can be seen in children who watch short-form videos for two hours or more daily. These include irritability, lack of interest in studies, problems in sleeping, restlessness and the desire to check mobile frequently.
How to protect children from digital addiction?
Experts have suggested three measures to protect children from digital addiction. First, create ‘screen-free time’ and ‘no-gadget zones’. Second, involve children in real-life activities, such as outdoor sports, music, painting or reading books. Third, parents themselves should set an example, because children often adopt their parents’ habits.
Digital Dopamine and its habit
Research shows that when a person watches new and exciting short videos, the brain releases dopamine, known as a ‘feel-good chemical’. The problem occurs when the brain becomes addicted to this instant gratification. As a result, studies, reading books or normal conversation do not seem attractive to children. This is why children use their phones to watch new videos again and again.
What to do?
Experts say technology in itself is not the problem, but its excessive and uncontrolled use can be a cause for concern. Therefore, it is essential to set limits on children’s screen time, select content according to their age, and promote offline activities with the family.
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