Psychologist discusses impact of short-form videos on attention

Clinical psychologist Pham Quynh Trang from Phuong Dong General Hospital has addressed concerns regarding the impact of short-form video content, such as TikTok, Reels, and Shorts, on cognitive focus.

According to Trang, the issue is not necessarily the consumption of short videos themselves, but rather how they are used and whether the habit replaces activities requiring long-term concentration. Because short-form content provides rapid, continuous new stimuli, users may become accustomed to fast-paced information. This can lead to impatience or boredom when transitioning to slower-paced tasks like reading, studying, or engaging in long conversations.

Trang emphasizes that this is a matter of habit and behavioral patterns rather than a direct cause of ADHD or other mental disorders. The brain adapts to the environment it is frequently exposed to, creating a cycle where the user constantly seeks new stimuli through continuous scrolling.