Video: Brain Rot: Study shows how TikTok and Instagram may be rewiring our minds

Nov 25, 2025, 7:03 PM | Updated: 7:43 pm

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Findings from the American Psychological Association have tied short-form video content from apps such as TikTok and Instagram’s Reels page to what researchers call ‘brain rot.’

Greg and Holly discuss studies that show a potent link between the use of smartphones and social media apps with declining brain activity and declining reading comprehension among young people. Producer Caitlyn Johnston shares her experience after stepping away from social media and prioritizing more long-form content.

Dr. Matthew Checketts, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at The University of Utah Huntsman Mental Health Institute’s Neurobehavior HOME Program, shares his expertise on how our smartphones are impacting our brains and attention spans.
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Video: Brain Rot: Study shows how TikTok and Instagram may be rewiring our minds

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