The Oxford Word of the Year for 2024 is ‘brain rot.’ The term has gained new meaning, sparking much discussion as the social media whirlwind takes over. Initially gaining massive popularity on TikTok among Gen Z and Gen Alpha, it is now being widely discussed due to growing concerns about the effects of excessive online content consumption.
So here’s the question: Are we drowning in the pool of social media, or just swimming?
Dr. Neil Hopkin, Director of Education at Fortes Education, UAE, provided a closer insight into “the broader implications of excessive social media scrolling.” He suggests that this trend has become a defining habit among K-12 students, reshaping how they process information and engage with the world.
“The average teenager spends over three hours daily on social media platforms, according to Pew Research Center, with many reporting difficulty in cutting back. This habit is not just a matter of time management but a broader issue of cognitive and emotional development,” Dr. Neil noted.
Meanwhile, studies suggest that constant exposure to fast-paced content fragments attention spans. A report from the American Psychological Association highlights how social media use activates the brain’s reward systems, creating a cycle of dependency and making sustained focus on tasks like reading or problem-solving increasingly difficult.
“For students, this translates to challenges in academic performance, as traditional learning environments demand deep concentration—a skill eroded by endless scrolling,” added Dr. Neil.
Excessive scrolling contributes to social isolation
Reports suggest that kids are glued to screens, and there is an immediate reaction when the device is taken away. To this, Dr. Hopkin shared, “Despite the promise of connectivity, platforms often exacerbate feelings of loneliness, as interactions are shallow and curated. Students increasingly report feeling disconnected in a connected world, emphasizing the paradox of modern digital engagement. Educators must address this by integrating digital literacy into the curriculum, teaching students to critically assess their media habits and balance screen time with real-world interactions.”
What if you’re not on social media?
Kids who are stopped from using social media tend to ‘feel inferior,’ or feel they lack knowledge and are left out of discussions? Dr. Neil Hopkin believes, “While social media users grapple with issues of overexposure, non-users face their own set of challenges. A survey by Common Sense Media found that approximately 20% of teenagers avoid social media altogether, often citing concerns about privacy or disinterest. However, these students frequently report feeling excluded from peer conversations, which are increasingly shaped by digital trends and viral content.”
Social media serves as a dominant cultural hub, especially among adolescents, who use platforms to share experiences, build friendships, and stay informed. Non-users may struggle to decode references to memes, challenges, or viral videos that saturate school culture.
“This creates a subtle but significant divide, where abstaining students can feel socially and culturally disconnected, potentially impacting their self-confidence and sense of belonging,” he concluded.
