Influence of Short-form Video Content on Attention Span and Time Management among Medical Students in Southern India

Introduction: Short-form video content (SFVC) on social networking sites has become immensely popular among youth, including medical students. Despite its entertainment value, excessive SFVC consumption may impact attention span and time management. This study explores these effects among medical students. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in November 2023 among 372 medical students in Mangalore, India. The data were collected via Google forms. Attention span was assessed via the Necker cube test, whereas time management practices were evaluated via the time management questionnaire. The participants were categorized as superficial, minimal, moderate, or heavy SFVC viewers based on daily viewing duration. Statistical analyses were performed via SPSS. Results: The mean age of the participants was 21.2 years (SD 1.5), with 75% identified as heavy SFVC viewers. The mean number of Necker cube reversals was significantly greater among heavy viewers (P < 0.001), indicating reduced attention spans. However, no statistically significant associations were detected between SFVC viewing patterns and time management (P = 0.14). Conclusion: Heavy SFVC consumption is linked to poorer attention spans, warranting awareness programs among medical students. Interventions promoting responsible consumption, self-regulation, and mindfulness practices such as yoga could mitigate these adverse effects and improve academic focus.