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Investigating Changes in Short-Term Attention Due to Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts
Subject area: Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities · Area of research: Humanities
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I7-1713748
Abstract
This study examines the impact of Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts on the short-term attention span of adolescents aged 13 to 19 years. These platforms are widely used by teenagers due to their short, engaging, and easily accessible video content; however, excessive usage may affect the ability to focus on tasks requiring sustained attention. The study aimed to explore the relationship between short-form video consumption and changes in attention levels, with a comparison between frequent and less frequent users. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and standardized attention measures, including the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and the Short Numerical Attention Scale (SNAS). Descriptive statistics and comparative analysis were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that higher exposure to Reels and Shorts was associated with reduced short-term attention and increased distractibility. Overall, the study highlights the influence of short-form video content on adolescents’ attention patterns and emphasizes the importance of balanced and mindful media use.
Keywords
Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, Short-Term Attention Span, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Short Numerical Attention Scale (SNAS), Adolescents.
How to cite this paper
@article{1713748,
author = {Tanushka Mary Jaggi, Anshvi Negi, Nandani Vatsa, Sonakshi Tokas, Vanchita Sangwan },
title = {Investigating Changes in Short-Term Attention Due to Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2026},
volume = {9},
number = {7},
pages = {2017-2022},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1713748.pdf},
abstract = {This study examines the impact of Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts on the short-term attention span of adolescents aged 13 to 19 years. These platforms are widely used by teenagers due to their short, engaging, and easily accessible video content; however, excessive usage may affect the ability to focus on tasks requiring sustained attention. The study aimed to explore the relationship between short-form video consumption and changes in attention levels, with a comparison between frequent and less frequent users. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and standardized attention measures, including the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and the Short Numerical Attention Scale (SNAS). Descriptive statistics and comparative analysis were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that higher exposure to Reels and Shorts was associated with reduced short-term attention and increased distractibility. Overall, the study highlights the influence of short-form video content on adolescents’ attention patterns and emphasizes the importance of balanced and mindful media use.},
keywords = {Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, Short-Term Attention Span, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Short Numerical Attention Scale (SNAS), Adolescents.},
month = {January},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I7-1713748}
}