Comparison of the Cognitive Impacts of Instagram vs. TikTok Use Among Adolescents of Different Socioeconomic Levels

Abstract

The use of social media has been significantly increasing, with Brazil being the third country with the highest daily social media usage (10 hours and 35 minutes). Social media platforms are responsible for the instant release of dopamine, which perpetuates the need to use these networks to maintain this high level of satisfaction. Thus, when the use of social media is interrupted, individuals experience an immediate reduction in dopamine levels, which can lead to irritability and sadness. For this reason, the study aims to analyze the impacts of Instagram and TikTok on cognitive functions (attention and memory) during adolescence. The objectives of this study are to analyze the cognitive impact of Instagram and TikTok, compare the results across different socioeconomic levels, and assess varying behaviors of young people on social media. The study consists of two stages: 1) applying a questionnaire, attention, and memory tests, and 2) dividing participants into two groups: Group 1 will reduce Instagram use, and Group 2 will reduce TikTok use for four weeks. Participants will take the questionnaire and attention and memory tests before and after the reduction period. The questionnaire includes items on social media use, attention tests, and memory tests.Results: 70% of young people who used social media immediately before bedtime frequently felt irritated, and 68.75% reported difficulty sleeping. Among users with an average daily usage of 3-5 hours, 50% of Instagram users and 35% of TikTok users had school grades of 8.0 or higher. The daily study average for 50% of adolescents in both groups was over four hours. Conclusion: There is a similarity between TikTok and Instagram regarding their influence on study routines, and these two platforms are not directly associated with academic performance. Furthermore, a behavioral influence from using social media close to bedtime is observed.