Short-form video, cognitive and mental health outcomes: a systematic review

Short-form video (SFV) platforms, such as TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, dominate online engagement among Generation Z. Their rapid, algorithm-driven and emotionally salient design raises concerns about potential associations with cognitive functioning and mental health. To our knowledge, no systematic review has synthesised evidence jointly on both cognitive and mental health outcomes in Generation Z young adults.

We conducted a systematic review in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 and Cochrane guidance (PROSPERO CRD420251148976). Eight databases (2014-2024) were searched, including PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus and CINAHL. Eligible studies examined associations between SFV use and cognitive mechanisms (attention, executive function, memory, emotional regulation, critical thinking) as well as mental health outcomes in adults aged 18-29. Findings were synthesised narratively by grouping studies according to the primary outcome domains and identifying recurring patterns, consistencies and differences across the included studies.

From 519 101 records, 17 studies met the inclusion criteria. Preliminary evidence indicated associations between heavier SFV use and attentional fragmentation, markers of lower executive control and emotional dysregulation. Problematic or compulsive use was associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms, though findings were heterogeneous and often specific to platforms. Some experimental studies reported short-term improvements in mood or associated factors including poor self-regulation, proneness to boredom and escapist motives. These relationships may be bidirectional, with pre-existing attentional or psychological vulnerabilities contributing to more frequent or problematic SFV use. The use of cross-sectional designs, reliance on self-report and inconsistent outcome definitions limited the overall quality of evidence.

SFV use may be associated with markers of lower cognitive control and greater emotional regulation difficulties in young adults, alongside anxiety and compulsive engagement. Potential strategies could combine user-focused approaches (eg, self-regulation and metacognitive training) with design-level interventions (eg, pacing cues and friction against infinite scrolling). Longitudinal and experimental studies are needed to clarify causality and directionality.