Brain Rot: Study shows how TikTok and Instagram may be rewiring our minds

KSL's Inside Sources

Brain Rot: Study shows how TikTok and Instagram may be rewiring our minds

Clean

Published on Nov 24, 2025, 12:38:48 PM
Total time: 00:28:49

Episode Description
Findings from the American Psychological Association have tied short-form video content from apps such as TikTok and Instagram’s Reels page to what researchers call 'brain rot'. Greg and Holly discuss studies that show a potent link between the use of smart phones and social media apps with declining brain activity and diving reading comprehension among young people. Producer Caitlyn Johnston shares her experience after stepping away from social media and prioritizing more long form content. Dr. Matthew Checketts, Licensed Clinical Social Worker at The University of Utah Huntsman Mental Health Institute’s Neurobehavior HOME Program shares his expertise on how our smart phones are impacting our brains and attention spans.
More about KSL's Inside Sources

The all-new Inside Sources. Hosted by Greg Skordas and Dr. Holly Richardson, two well-known voices in Utah’s legal and political circles.