Saudi University Students' Awareness of "Brain Rot" and the Behavior of Infinite Scrolling of Short Videos on Social Media Platforms

(A Field Study)

Abstract

This study aims to explore Saudi university students’ awareness of the concept of "brain rot" as a potential consequence of infinite scrolling through short video clips on social media platforms, and to analyze the nature of this behavior and assess its academic and psychological implications. The study adopts a descriptive survey methodology based on an electronic questionnaire distributed through WhatsApp student groups. A non-probability sample of 210 male and female students with diverse demographic and academic backgrounds participated, Results revealed a limited conceptual understanding of "brain rot", as most students encountered the term for the first time through the questionnaire, In contrast, there was a high cognitive awareness of related symptoms such as distraction, lack of focus, and temporary detachment from reality, Findings indicated students’ deep involvement in infinite scrolling, driven by entertainment, mood improvement, and boredom relief, particularly via the TikTok platform, where appealing content and a younger demographic reinforced the behavior , This habit was found to be both cognitively and psychologically disruptive, as most students reported reduced attention and a significant correlation between infinite scrolling and lower academic performance, Nonetheless, students demonstrated selectivity and awareness during viewing, reflecting self-recognition of symptom overlap with "brain rot" and a developed internal awareness of the phenomenon despite its conceptual ambiguity. The study recommends creating digital awareness campaigns via university platforms, incorporating modern digital concepts into curricula, initiating interactive community-based programs, implementing university policies to limit random browsing, and developing technological tools to monitor digital behavior.