Understanding Brain Rot: The Impact of Low-Quality Content Consumption

In the digital era, social media is overflowing with diverse content, including low-quality and trivial content, often referred to as “receh” in Indonesian slang. This phenomenon has raised concerns about “Brain Rot,” a non-formal term describing the mental decline caused by excessive exposure to low-value media.

What is Brain Rot?

While not a formal psychological term, “Brain Rot” metaphorically refers to cognitive and mental health deterioration due to prolonged and excessive consumption of social media, particularly low-quality content. According to psychologist Vinandita Utari, this condition can result in diminished mental sharpness, reduced critical thinking abilities, and weakened cognitive functions, as the brain is deprived of challenging or educational stimuli.

Positive vs. Negative Impacts

Using social media for brief entertainment, especially during moments of fatigue, is generally harmless. However, issues arise when usage becomes excessive, habitual, or focused solely on trivial content. Negative impacts include:

1. Instant Gratification: The brain’s dopamine response creates an addictive loop, driving individuals to seek more similar content.

2. Social Comparison: Excessive consumption fosters unrealistic comparisons with others, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

3. Cognitive Decline: Neural pathways, or synapses, weaken when not exercised through meaningful activities, reducing problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

4. Behavioral and Emotional Effects: Prolonged exposure may cause mood swings, irritability, and even withdrawal from meaningful social interactions.

Risks for the Younger Generation

Children and adolescents, such as Gen Z and Gen Alpha, are particularly vulnerable to Brain Rot. Continuous exposure to low-quality content can weaken their ability to engage in abstract thinking, critical discussions, and in-depth learning, ultimately affecting their academic and professional futures.

How to Prevent Brain Rot

1. Screen Content: Avoid overly short, sensational, or invalid content that stimulates instant gratification without substance.

2. Practice Digital Literacy: Encourage questioning and critical evaluation of content.

3. Engage in Offline Activities: Redirect attention to hobbies or activities that stimulate creativity and physical movement.

4. Professional Help: If symptoms like prolonged stress or withdrawal persist, seek help from a psychologist or counselor.

Role of Parents

Parents play a crucial role in mitigating the risks of Brain Rot by:

• Setting screen time limits.

• Prioritizing education before entertainment.

• Encouraging discussions and critical thinking.

• Cultivating meaningful family interactions.

By understanding and addressing these issues, families can create a balanced digital environment, promoting healthier and more productive use of technology.

resource: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tnmU6kGi-g&list=WL&index=1&t=78s

Versi Indonesia: https://ariska138.medium.com/memahami-brain-rot-dampak-konsumsi-konten-berkualitas-rendah-b6dec7c9b9a8