Understanding Brain Rot and Its Impact: A Growing Concern [Video]

Author: Dr. Sushma Gopalan, Child Psychologist – Child Life Specialist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore

India

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New Delhi, December 17, 2024:

Brain rot refers to the gradual deterioration of mental sharpness caused by prolonged exposure to unproductive activities, such as binge-watching mindless videos, endless scrolling through social media, or consuming trivial, overly simplified content. The phenomenon is often linked to habits that overstimulate the brain without providing meaningful intellectual engagement.

This form of cognitive degradation is not the result of physical damage, like that seen in neurodegenerative diseases, but rather the result of mental stagnation, reduced attention spans, and a lack of critical thinking stimulation.

How Does Brain Rot Develop?

The brain thrives on novelty and challenge, but not all stimulation is created equal. When we constantly consume short, dopamine-inducing content such as viral videos, memes, or clickbait headlines we train our brains to seek immediate gratification. Over time, this rewiring can impair our ability to concentrate …