YouTube Cofounder Warns Short Videos Harm Children’s Attention Spans

Steve Chen, co-founder of YouTube, has voiced strong concerns about the impact of short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts on children's attention spans and cognitive development. In a recent talk at Stanford Business School, Chen emphasized that these bite-sized videos are primarily entertainment designed for momentary engagement, which he believes leads to shorter attention spans and addictive viewing habits among youth. He noted that some parents are actively limiting their children's exposure to these fast-paced videos, encouraging them instead to consume longer-form content to promote better focus. Chen also suggested that platforms implement daily usage restrictions based on age to protect young users from overconsumption. His warnings echo similar concerns from other tech industry leaders and academics, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and NYU professor Jonathan Haidt, who highlight the detrimental psychological effects of social media on children. Chen highlighted the tension between monetizing attention and providing meaningful, useful content, urging for greater industry responsibility in safeguarding children's mental health.