January 6, Posted on 7:30 AM IST
Safeena Arfat Fatima
Short-form video platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook have rapidly become a part of daily digital consumption worldwide. What began as brief entertainment has now evolved into prolonged screen exposure, increasingly affecting children and teenagers.
Children today are spending hours scrolling through reels and shorts, often without parental supervision. Much of this content is not designed for young minds, yet it remains easily accessible through smartphones and auto-play features.
Experts explain that short videos, usually lasting between 15 and 90 seconds, are designed to deliver constant stimulation. This repeated exposure to fast-paced visuals and sounds can reduce attention span, self-control, and the ability to focus on academic tasks.
One of the most serious concerns is sleep disruption. Many children watch short videos before bedtime, preventing the brain from relaxing. Research links excessive screen use at night with poor sleep quality, anxiety, irritability, and emotional stress among teenagers.
Another issue is unexpected exposure to inappropriate or violent content. Unlike traditional programs, short videos often appear without warnings, increasing emotional overload for young viewers who are still developing coping skills.
Health specialists also warn that overdependence on instant digital entertainment reduces opportunities for outdoor play, creativity, and meaningful family interaction. Over time, this may weaken social skills and independent thinking.
According to Dr. Altaf Naseem Senior Pediatrician at Apollo Hospital, excessive use of mobile phones is having serious mental and psychological effects on children. Their eyesight is being affected, and children are becoming more aggressive and violent. Therefore, parental control and supervision are extremely important.
Parents and educators are now being advised to establish balanced digital habits. Setting screen limits, encouraging offline activities, and having open discussions about online behavior can help reduce risks while allowing children to benefit from technology responsibly.
As short-form content continues to dominate social media, experts stress that awareness and supervision are key to protecting children’s mental and physical well-being.
Dr Safeena Arfat Fatima is an award-winning journalist with over 25 years of experience. Formerly Supplement Editor at Munsif and Etemaad Urdu Dailies, she is now Editor – Special Affairs at Raftaar e Deccan.
