Does Short Video Lead to Decreased Attention Span and Memory Impairment? a Study on the Impact of Excessive Use of It on Well-Being

The rapid rise of short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts has raised concerns about their potential impact on cognitive functions, particularly attention span and memory. This study investigates the effects of short video engagement on attention and memory among Indonesian undergraduate students, a demographic highly active on these platforms. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 297 respondents via a structured questionnaire, assessing short video engagement, attention span, and memory capability. Regression analysis revealed a significant negative impact of short video engagement on memory capability ($\mathrm{B}=-0.477, \mathrm{p}<0.001$), suggesting that excessive use may impair memory retention. However, no significant influence was found of short video engagement on attention span ($B=-0.004, p=0.863$). The study highlights the potential cognitive risks associated with short video consumption, particularly memory impairment while emphasizing the need for further research to explore individual differences in usage patterns and their long-term effects. These findings contribute to the growing discourse on digital media's cognitive consequences and underscore the importance of mindful consumption, particularly among students.