Megan Conefrey

Using innovative eye tracking technology, this study revealed that the short-form algorithm content favoured by social media companies such as TikTok can significantly reduce attention span and reaction time in a very short period.

These findings have significant ramifications for future technological policy and reinforce the urgent requirement to place age restrictions on not only the type of TikTok content available but also the duration and timing of exposure. In addition, more needs to be done to boost public awareness amongst parents of the potential harms to young people from continual exposure to this type of short-form media and the long-term consequences this may have on their capacity to learn or concentrate in the future. This research contributes to Research for Change by advocating for more responsible content design and fostering healthier digital engagement within societal contexts.