Do YouTube and TikTok Shorten Attention Span?
Has short-form video impacted kids? How has the increase in screen time affected a child’s ability to focus?
April 4, 2025
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This week, major shifts in social media and studies on screen time are making headlines. Meta’s changes to Facebook’s feed, the uncertain future of TikTok, and the rise of “finfluencers” on platforms like TikTok highlight how quickly kids are absorbing new trends.
At the same time, studies reveal rising teen loneliness, the challenges parents face managing screen time, and the growing need for guidance on supporting teen mental health. Here’s what parents need to know.
Parents Struggle with Screen Time Despite Warnings
Despite mounting research linking excessive screen time to cognitive delays, anxiety, and poor executive functioning, many parents still rely on screens for convenience.
A Bright Horizons survey reveals 60% of kids start using tech before they can read, with most exceeding recommended limits. Additionally, 68% of parents with kids under six admit their child needs a digital detox.
Experts urge intentionality — reducing passive screen use, engaging kids with hands-on activities, and using technology as a learning tool rather than just entertainment.
The Loneliness of Digital Teens
With 58% of teens lacking adequate social and emotional support, experts warn that declining in-person interactions and rising screen time are worsening adolescent loneliness.
While digital connections offer some benefits, they often fail to provide deep support.
Experts urge parents to help kids foster real-world relationships, be present, and encourage mentorship through schools and extracurriculars.
58% of teens do not get enough social and emotional support, study finds | American Psychological Association
Boosting Teen Mental Health
A study found that physical activity, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet are linked to lower stress and depressive symptoms in adolescents.
The study emphasized the importance of promoting these habits early in adolescence to improve overall mental health outcomes.
It encourages parents and caregivers to support these routines, as they can serve as protective factors against mental health challenges.
Childhood Lifestyle Behaviors and Mental Health Symptoms in Adolescence | JAMA Network
A Game-Changing Phishing Attack That Bypasses 2FA
Known as Astaroth, this new phishing kit bypasses two-factor authentication (2FA) by intercepting login credentials and session cookies in real time.
Unlike typical attacks, it acts as a middleman between users and services like Gmail, allowing attackers full access without 2FA.
To protect yourself, avoid unknown links, use passkeys, and regularly update your devices to ensure security against this sophisticated threat.
New phishing attack uses real-time interception to bypass 2FA | Fox News
AI is Boosting Efficiency, But Hurting Our Brains
A study by Microsoft and Carnegie Mellon shows that while AI tools can improve efficiency, they also reduce critical thinking.
Workers relying on AI too much disengage from problem-solving, leading to atrophy of creativity and originality, making workers less innovative and independent.
To combat this, make a habit of questioning and refining AI-generated work to keep your creative skills sharp and your mind engaged.
AI Is Making Us Dumber. Shocker. | Vice
Meta’s New ‘Friends Tab’ Brings Facebook Back to Its Roots
Meta just introduced a “Friends Tab” to Facebook, reviving the early days of the platform with a feed showcasing posts from friends and family.
This change, aimed at countering the dominance of recommended content, highlights Zuckerberg’s desire to refocus on social connections, though algorithmic content will remain a major part of the experience.
Facebook Returns to Its Roots: Showing Posts From Friends and Family | The New York Times
Rethinking Money Advice Beyond TikTok
As TikTok and social media platforms rise as go-to sources for financial advice, parents must guide their kids towards balanced, informed decisions.
Experts warn against relying too heavily on “finfluencers” and advocate for early financial education through real-world experiences, like allowances and comparison shopping.
While TikTok may offer basic tips, professional guidance and transparent family discussions are key to fostering a healthy relationship with money.
Kids Are Getting Financial Advice From TikTok. Should We Be Worried? | Today’s Parent
TikTok’s US Future in Limbo as April 5 Deadline Approaches
As the April 5 deadline nears, TikTok’s US operations face a potential sale or ban, with various buyers showing interest, including social media stars and tech firms.
Despite national security concerns, talks continue, and President Trump has suggested the possibility of a deal extension.
The outcome will impact millions of users who rely on the platform for news, entertainment, and business.
TikTok is almost out of time to find a buyer. Here’s what we know | CNN
Other Headlines
- The World Wide Web: Examining Harms Online | Ethics & Public Policy Center
- If TikTok Is Here to Stay, What Does That Mean for Us? | The New York Times
- Chatbot Confidential: How to Protect Your Privacy When Using AI Chatbots | The Wall Street
Did we miss anything?
Any other important tech news from this week? Let us know in the comments below.
Author Jackie Baucom
Jackie is a Gabb staff writer. She is the mother of four children and is passionate about keeping kids safe, happy, loved, and thriving. She has a degree in Mass Communication from the University of Utah.
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