This is precisely where the study begins: it examines whether—and how—this specific design, rather than just the content itself, may influence neurocognitive and emotional outcomes in adolescents and young adults.

“Our aim was to develop a differentiated understanding of the effects of short-video platforms based on scientifically robust evidence, and to move 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, published in the journal European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. “We wanted to better understand the role of platform design, usage patterns, and algorithmic mechanisms.”

Systematic evaluation of international studies

The analysis follows PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines and reviews research published between 2015 and 2025. Around 1,500 datasets were screened, with 42 studies involving approximately 47,000 participants ultimately included in the final analysis. The average participant age was 16.8 years.

Most studies were cross-sectional, complemented by longitudinal research as well as selected EEG and MRI studies. Evidence quality was assessed using the GRADE system (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation), an internationally recognised framework for evaluating the strength and reliability of scientific evidence, widely used in evidence-based medicine.

Cognitive and emotional impacts

Findings suggest that intensive and unstructured use of short-video platforms is associated with several negative outcomes. For the purpose of the review, “intensive use” is defined as four or more hours per day, while “unstructured use” refers to continuous scrolling without a defined purpose or routine.

Such usage patterns are associated with increased inattention and impulsivity (ranging from mild to moderate effects), as well as reduced working memory capacity and weaker self-regulation. Higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress were also observed across multiple studies.

Neuroimaging research further suggests possible biological correlations, including changes in grey matter and altered neural signal synchronisation. However, the authors note that these findings remain correlational and require further validation.

Alongside these risks, the study identifies protective factors. A supportive social environment, structured digital habits, and strong media literacy can help mitigate negative effects. “It is particularly important not to leave young people alone in navigating digital environments, but to empower them to engage with them consciously,” says Ebster.

Societal and policy relevance

The findings are relevant to parents, educators, healthcare professionals, therapists, app developers, and policymakers. They highlight the need for a more nuanced discussion of digital media use, with greater emphasis on platform design rather than focusing solely on screen time.

In practical terms, this means fostering structured digital routines, improving understanding of algorithmic systems, and strengthening digital literacy among young users.

Need for further research and regulation
The authors emphasise the need for further longitudinal and experimental studies to better establish causal relationships. They also call for regulatory attention, noting that frameworks should be developed to better protect vulnerable user groups on short-video platforms.

Significance of the study

This research is among the first to specifically examine the health-related effects of short-video platform design, particularly among individuals under 25. It provides important insights for future research, prevention strategies, health promotion, and broader societal debate.

Notably, the article originated from a master’s thesis by Marlene Ebster, which successfully passed peer review and was published in a leading journal.

According to her supervisor Sebastian Schmidt of the University of Bayreuth’s IMG, the work demonstrates both exceptional academic rigor and effective collaboration between all contributors, including the university library, writing centre, academic colleagues, and journal reviewers.

“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.”