TikTok Brain' is a legitimate worry – experts caution it is

TikTok is under scrutiny as experts warn of its potential to dull children’s brains, citing worrying effects on intellectual development.

According to one psychiatrist, excessive screen time may lead to lower attention spans, poor academic performance, and decreased IQ levels in young users.

Experts say 'TikTok brain' is a real phenomenon associated with the negative cognitive effects in users — Experts say ‘TikTok brain’ is a real phenomenon associated with the negative cognitive effects in usersCredit: Getty

The rampant usage of fast-paced social media has seen children lowering their attention spansCredit: Getty

Dubbed “Tika Tok brain,” this phenomenon is said to alter online and offline behaviour, consuming children’s minds with its rapid-fire content.

Users habitually scrolling through bite-sized videos may struggle to focus on longer tasks or activities, experts reveal.

Professor Stephen Scott CBE told The Sun some of the effects of social media like TikTok, video games, and screens on the brainCredit: PA — Professor Stephen Scott CBE told The Sun some of the effects of social media like TikTok video games and screens on the brainCredit PA

The fast-paced nature of TikTok could foster impulsive decision-making, as individuals may act without fully considering the consequences.

Disrupted sleep patterns are also a concern, with late-night scrolling potentially leading to fatigue and diminished cognitive function.

Exposure to curated content and idealized images on TikTok may contribute to self-esteem issues among some users, experts suggest.

Psychiatrists warn that excessive screen time and social media usage can detract from more productive activities such as work, studying, or hobbies.

A TikTok spokesperson emphasises the platform’s age restrictions and efforts to promote healthy screen time habits among younger users.

Youngsters also have their mental well-being affectedCredit: Getty

The Chinese app has hundreds of millions of active usersCredit: Getty

Users aged 13-17 are automatically set a 60-minute daily screen time limit, with additional prompts and notifications to manage usage.

Screen time tools, including time limits, prompts, sleep reminders, and breaks, are provided within the app to encourage moderation.

Professor Stephen Scott from King’s College London highlights the impact of social media and screen time on child development, citing behavioural and biological changes.

Increased screen time may lead to reduced myelination in the brain, affecting attention, cognitive development, and intelligence, Professor Scott explains.

He warns of the potential long-term effects on brain function, drawing parallels between changes seen in children’s brains and those in Alzheimer’s patients.

Professor Scott emphasizes the importance of parental supervision and moderation in screen time management.

Social media consultant Zoe Cairns discusses the phenomenon of the “TikTok brain,” noting its influence on attention spans and online consumption habits.

While acknowledging potential adverse effects, Cairns highlights TikTok’s educational value and its role in providing diverse content to young users.

She cautions against scaremongering and emphasises the need for parents to monitor their children’s online behaviour and mental health.

Cairns acknowledges the potential for anxiety and social withdrawal but also recognises the positive impact of increased knowledge and critical thinking skills.

She discusses new features promoting responsible consumption and suggests a shift towards longer-form content to encourage deeper engagement.

Cairns calls for increased infrastructure and policies to protect young users and promote responsible social media usage.

Beyond individual behaviours, there are broader societal implications to consider. As children spend more time on TikTok and similar platforms, they may become less inclined to engage in face-to-face social interactions, potentially leading to a generation that struggles with interpersonal communication skills.

Moreover, the constant bombardment of stimuli on TikTok can desensitise users to the value of deep, focused thinking.

Instead of contemplating complex ideas or engaging in meaningful conversations, young people may gravitate towards quick, surface-level content that provides instant gratification but little substance.

Parents and educators alike are grappling with how to navigate this digital landscape responsibly.

While technology offers countless opportunities for learning and connection, it also challenges managing screen time and fostering healthy digital habits.

Experts explained that short attention spans can jeopardise children's academic performance — Experts explained that short attention spans can jeopardise children’s academic performanceCredit: Getty

But they also argued that the video platform can also be a great learning toolCredit: Getty

Finding a balance between embracing technological advancements and preserving essential aspects of human interaction is a pressing concern for many.

To address the potential impact of TikTok on children’s cognitive development, a multifaceted approach is necessary.

Scrolling late at night can disrupt your sleep patternCredit: AFP

A social media consultant also revealed that 'addicted' social media users can become more secluded — A social media consultant also revealed that ‘addicted’ social media users can become more secludedCredit: Getty

This approach should include ongoing research better to understand the nuances of screen time’s effects, implementing policies and guidelines to promote responsible usage, and fostering open communication between parents, children, and educators about the role of technology in their lives.

By working together, we can strive to take advantage of the benefits of platforms like TikTok while mitigating their potential drawbacks to children’s well-being and intellectual development.