Many people are spending excessive time on their phones, scrolling through social media and consuming short-form content. Experts now warn that this behaviour is changing how the brain functions. The term ‘popcorn brain’ was introduced in 2011 by University of Washington researcher David Levy, describing a condition where individuals become so accustomed to rapid digital stimulation that everyday offline life feels uninteresting.
Psychologist Dannielle Haig explained to Glamour that social media platforms constantly feed users personalised streams of content and notifications. This triggers overstimulation of the brain’s dopamine reward system, which seeks novelty and pleasure. She clarified that the brain is not being damaged, but its neural pathways are adapting to cope with the demands of continuous multitasking and rapid information processing.
Clinical health psychologist Dr Jennifer Wolkin told Women’s Health that popcorn brain can lead to scattered thoughts, disinterest, reduced concentration, quick shifts in conversation, difficulty completing tasks, mental exhaustion and feelings of overwhelm.
A new study involving 98,299 participants across 71 research papers revealed that higher consumption of short-form videos, such as those found on TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, is associated with poorer attention spans in both younger and older individuals. Researchers noted that while these videos began as entertainment, they are now widely used in education, advertising and digital campaigns. However, their design, which promotes endless scrolling, raises concerns about addiction and negative health outcomes. Increased use has also been linked to depression, anxiety, stress and loneliness.
The term ‘popcorn brain’ likens the mind’s overstimulation to popcorn kernels rapidly popping, with thoughts firing erratically and the brain becoming disorganised and overloaded, comparable to the feeling of having too many browser tabs open.
To address this issue, experts recommend incorporating healthier screen time habits, including limiting online activity, taking frequent breaks and reducing the urge to constantly check one’s phone. Mindfulness practices such as meditation may also help, alongside structured daily routines. The Mayo Clinic suggests the Pomodoro method, which involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a five-minute break, with longer breaks after four cycles. Psychology Today adds that consistent rituals and routines can help reduce negative habits, promote positive behaviour and support sustained periods of productive focus with regular rest.
