The Psychological Implications of AI-Driven Short-Form Video Algorithms: Impulsivity and Delay of Gratification in Young adults

Abstract

With the growing integration of digital media into everyday life, increased engagement with short-form video content has raised concerns regarding attention and self-regulatory functioning amongst young adults. Short-form video platforms present users with rapidly changing, personalized content streams that are often optimized to sustain engagement. Increased consumption of such content has the potential to influence impulsive behaviour and long-term goal-oriented decision-making. Most platforms rely on AI driven algorithmic systems to curate personalized content, filter information, and reinforce users’ beliefs and preferences, creating echo chambers. This results in maximum user engagement and, prolonged viewing durations. This study examined whether time spent consuming such short-form content could act as indicator of various regulatory difficulties like increased impulsivity in behaviour and reduced ability to delay gratification. A sample of 32 young adults, aged 18-26 from Mohali, Punjab, completed a self-report questionnaire assessing impulsivity, the ability to delay gratification and a few questions regarding the number of hours spent watching short-form video content each day. Correlational analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between time spent consuming AI curated short-form video content and impulsivity. This indicated that individuals who spent more time consuming such content reported higher impulsive tendencies. Time spent on short-form video content was also negatively related to delay of gratification, although this association was not statistically significant. These findings suggested that increased exposure to algorithmically recommended short-form video content may be associated with reduced self-control, particularly in the form of heightened impulsivity. These results underscore the need for mindful use of digital media and its potential implications for self-regulatory processes in young adults.