Sneaky Ways Video Apps Keep Teens Watching

Video apps feature short, catchy videos that draw students in quickly and they are hugely popular. We recognize that there is a lot of amazing content out there that students can use for their benefit, however, too much time spent on these video apps can leave teens feeling overwhelmed and contribute to screen time addiction.

Full Event Replay (Parent video)

What video apps are popular with teens?

• Vine became the original short-form video app when they launched their six-second video format in 2013, however the app has since shut down (Source: NY Times)
• TikTok is currently one of the most popular short-form video apps out there and its popularity encouraged other social media apps like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook to add short videos to their platforms

What are the consequences of spending too much time on video apps?

• Excessive screen time can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep
• Video apps can distract you and impact your focus, causing your performance at school to suffer
• Filling too much of your day with screens can take away from time with friends and family members
• Replacing physical activity with screen time can decrease your overall health and contribute to weight problems
• Studies have shown that excessive screen time can impact your mood and may lead to anxiety/depression
• Excessive time on video apps can lead to body image issues due to comparing yourself with others
• Students tell us that their attention span has been impacted by video apps that show short catchy content because they expect things to grab their attention right away

Strategies to Reduce Time on Video Apps

• Turn off the autoplay feature whenever possible
• Take advantage of in-app screen time settings to get reminders to put your phone down after a set period of time
• Use a physical timer to remind you to get off the video app
• Schedule blocks of time for passive screen time and avoid passive screen time outside of those hours 
• Use screen time apps to help you stay focused and on track

Best Tools to Help Reduce Time on Video Apps

• Opal - Block distracting websites
• ClearSpace - Free to use for one app (paid for additional apps)
• Freedom - Create limits for your current screen time session
• Off the Grid - Lock your phone down when you need to take a break
• SelfControl - Block distracting websites until a timer expires
• Forest - Watch an image of a tree “grow” the longer you avoid distracting apps
• Learn more about apps to help reduce screen time here

More resources for parents, students, & educators

• Best Screen Time Apps for Students
• ‍Making Screen Time Fun While Reducing the Negative Impact‍
• 10 Screen Time Management Tips to Prevent Addiction‍
• Balancing Video Game Screen Time for Teens

Conclusion

Video apps can be a lot of fun, especially for students who are looking for some quick entertainment. These short videos are ingrained in pop culture and can also play a role in a student’s social life. Finding ways to use video apps in a balanced way can help students reduce excessive screen time and some of the negative impacts it can have on their lives.