A new study found that watching TikTok and Instagram videos deactivates key regions of the brain's cognitive control network, suggesting these platforms may impair focused thinking and self-regulation. Researchers used neuroimaging to observe reduced activity in prefrontal areas associated with executive function during social media consumption.
Background
The study adds to growing research on how short-form video platforms affect brain function and attention. This aligns with ongoing debates about social media's impact on mental health and cognitive performance, particularly among younger users.
- Source
- Hacker News (RSS)
- Published
- Aug 21, 2026 at 02:54 AM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10