Scenario 1 One important group notification on messenger came at night. Tomorrow is the Chemistry final paper. Tamim took his phone in hand, checked the notification and went into Instagram and Facebook for a quick scroll.
Boom! Next time he looks at the clock, 4 hours have already passed.
Scenario 2 Hridi is studying with her friends for an upcoming class test. Her friends are explaining a topic to Hridi. But she could barely focus to understand. She wants to check her phone without any reason. Even the group study setup is not helping her.
Scenario 3 Rimi is in Cox’s Bazar amid a very calm and peaceful view. Her whole family is with her. Rather than spending time with her family or enjoying any activities, she is on her phone. She is probably watching some DIY reels that she has no plan to execute.
Sounds familiar?
Unfortunately, this is the reality of our generation. Fb reels, a phenomenon introduced in the year 2021 to battle with the rising popularity of TikTok and Youtube shorts. By mid 2022, the popularity of Fb reels skyrocketed and it became an integral part of Meta.
One might think Facebook reels are just another addition in the tech world. It is another source of entertainment. The worst it could be is distracting, but that is just not the case. The reel culture is badly affecting people’s content-consuming choices. Just to grasp attention within a snap of time, influencers are taking drastic steps.
The overdose of dopamine is changing the psychology, cognitive behaviour and lifestyle at large.
Let’s see what studies have to say. Statistics by Microsoft, shows that digital media has reduced average attention spans from 12 seconds in 2000 to 8 seconds, with Gen Z being particularly affected.
The attention span is declining and time spent on social media is increasing. According to a 2023 report by DataReportal, the average daily social media usage worldwide is 2 hours and 31 minutes, with Gen Z spending significantly more time on platforms featuring short-form video content.
Gen Z prefers short-form content over long-form videos or articles even for learning purposes. For example, a 2022 report by Deloitte found that 60% of Gen Z prefers short videos for learning and entertainment, compared to 40% of older generations.
The demerits do not end here. Not only students but employees with short attention spans are tough to handle. Employers are also noticing shorter attention spans among Gen Z employees, with a 2023 LinkedIn report highlighting that 65% of managers struggle with Gen Z’s preference for quick, visual communication over detailed, text-based instructions.
Meta’s heavy promotion and monetisation of reels further amplify this trend, contributing to a cultural shift toward shorter attention spans and fragmented engagement. Without reducing screen time or proper self-control, the reel culture could be proven as a slow poison for GenZ