Endless scroll may raise inattention, stress in under-25s, review suggests

by Jennifer Opel, Bayreuth University

edited by Lisa Lock, reviewed by Andrew Zinin

Lisa Lock

Scientific Editor

Meet our editorial team
Behind our editorial process

Andrew Zinin

Lead Editor

Meet our editorial team
Behind our editorial process Editors' notes

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

fact-checked

trusted source

proofread

The GIST Add as preferred source

In contrast to classical digital media, short-video platforms are characterized by rapidly changing content, highly personalized recommendations and a targeted maximization of usage time. This is precisely where the study begins: It examines whether and how this specific design—and not just the content—can influence neurocognitive and emotional effects in adolescents and young adults.

"Our aim was to develop a differentiated understanding of the effects of short-video platforms based on scientifically sound findings and thereby create a foundation for moving beyond blanket statements such as 'less screen time,'" explains Marlene Ebster, graduate of the master's program in health economics at the University of Bayreuth's Institute of Medical Management and Health Sciences (IMG) and first author of the article "Taming the endless scroll," which has now been published in the journal European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. "We wanted to understand the role played by platform design, usage routines and algorithmic mechanisms."

The analysis follows the established PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines and includes scientific studies from 2015 to 2025. In total, about 1,500 data sets were screened, of which 42 studies with around 47,000 participants were included in the final evaluation. The average age was 16.8 years.

The majority of the studies consisted of cross-sectional investigations, supplemented by longitudinal studies as well as individual EEG and MRI studies. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE system. The GRADE system (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) is an internationally recognized method for systematically evaluating the quality of scientific studies and the strength of recommendations in guidelines. It is primarily used in evidence-based medicine.

The results show that intensive and unstructured use of short-video platforms is associated with a range of negative effects. Here, based heuristically on the available studies, a daily usage duration of four or more hours is defined as "intensive use." The term "unstructured use" refers to scrolling through short videos without a fixed routine. This is to be distinguished from structured use, for example, during commuting or as a shared activity in social settings. Use is considered unstructured especially when it occurs spontaneously and delays sleep times or periods of study.

The negative effects specifically include an increase in inattention and impulsivity within a mild to moderate range. In addition, statistical associations can be observed with reduced working memory capacity and impaired self-regulation. Higher levels of anxiety, depression and stress are also found. Furthermore, imaging studies indicate possible neurobiological correlations, such as changes in gray matter as well as in neural signal synchronization.

Alongside the risks, the study also identifies possible protective mechanisms. A supportive social environment, clear digital routines and well-developed media literacy can help reduce negative effects. "It is particularly important not to leave young people on their own, but to empower them to engage consciously with digital offerings," Ebster says.

The results are addressed to a broad audience: parents, schools, universities, doctors, therapists, but also app designers and policymakers. They underline the need to speak about digital media use in a more differentiated way and, in particular, to pay greater attention to the role of platform design.

In practical terms, this means that instead of focusing exclusively on usage time, structures and (digital) competencies should be developed that promote the conscious use of short-video platforms, for example through fixed digital routines, a better understanding of algorithms and targeted support for young people.

At the same time, the authors emphasize that further research is required—particularly in the form of longitudinal and experimental studies. They also see a need for action at the regulatory level. "Already today, it is necessary to develop framework conditions for short-video platforms that particularly protect vulnerable groups," the study states.

The work is one of the first to specifically investigate the health effects of the design of short-video platforms, focusing in particular on people under age 25. It thus opens up essential and necessary perspectives for research and development, prevention and health promotion, as well as social debates.

It is also noteworthy that the scientific article emerged from a master's thesis written by Ebster, thus attesting to her particular scientific and personal aptitude. The master's thesis was supervised by Sebastian Schmidt, a research associate at the University of Bayreuth's Institute of Medical Management and Health Sciences (IMG) who is responsible for the Prevention and Health Promotion division within the IMG.

"It is remarkable and particularly gratifying when a scientific paper emerges from a master's thesis that withstands the stringent requirements of a peer-review process and ultimately makes a substantial contribution to the advancement of knowledge and becomes accessible to a broad audience," he says.

"In addition to Ebster's high level of commitment, I was particularly impressed by the smooth cooperation between all involved parties, who together contributed to the success: special thanks are therefore due to the University Library and Writing Center of the University of Bayreuth, the academic colleagues and the reviewers of the journal."

More information

Marlene Ebster et al, Taming the endless scroll? Short-form videos, digital routines and neurocognitive outcomes in youth, European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2026). DOI: 10.1007/s00787-026-03083-7

Key medical concepts

Attention Deficit DisordersAnxiety DisordersDepressionStress, Psychological

Clinical categories

PsychiatryPsychology & Mental healthPediatricsChildren's healthCommon illnesses & Prevention Provided by Bayreuth University Who's behind this story?

Lisa Lock

BA art history, MA material culture. Former museum editor, paramedic, and transplant coordinator. Editing for Science X since 2021. Full profile →

Andrew Zinin

Master's in physics with research experience. Long-time science news enthusiast. Plays key role in Science X's editorial success. Full profile →

Citation: Endless scroll may raise inattention, stress in under-25s, review suggests (2026, June 16) retrieved 16 June 2026 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-06-endless-scroll-inattention-stress-25s.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.