In contrast to classical digital media, short-video platforms are characterised by rapidly changing content, highly personalised recommendations and a targeted maximisation 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 programme 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, around 1,500 datasets 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 recognised 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 grey matter as well as in neural signal synchronisation.
Alongside the risks, the study also identifies possible protective mechanisms. A supportive social environment, clear digital routines and well-developed media literacy can help to 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,” says Ebster.
The results are addressed to a broad audience: parents, schools, universities, doctors, therapists, but also app designers and policy-makers. 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) competences 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 emphasise 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 the age of 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 Marlene 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, adding: “In addition to Ms. 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 Centre of the University of Bayreuth, the academic colleagues and the reviewers of the journal.”
Contact for scientific information:
Sebastian Schmidt
Research Associate
Telefon: +49 (0)921/55-4808
E-Mail: sebastian2.schmidt@uni-bayreuth.de
Original publication:
Ebster, M., Lauerer, M., Nagel, E. et al. Taming the endless scroll? Short-form videos, digital routines and neurocognitive outcomes in youth. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-026-03083-7
