Short-Form Media Consumption as Predictors of Attention Span, Emotional Regulation, Social Comparison, Self-Esteem and Social Support in Pakistani University Students

Abstract

This quantitative study examined short-form media consumption in relation to attention span, social comparison, self-esteem, emotion regulation and social support among university students. A convenience sample of two hundred fifty undergraduates was surveyed across Multan, Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Data were collected using an online survey measuring daily screen time alongside established psychological scales. Descriptive findings showed that most students spend significant time daily on short-form videos. TikTok and Facebook Reels emerged as the most popular platforms. Seeking information and news served as the primary motivation for scrolling. Correlation and regression analyses revealed that higher short-form media use predicted increased social comparison tendencies and higher self-esteem. However, frequent video consumption also predicted lower emotion regulation capacity among participants. Media use showed no significant relationship with attention span or social support. Overall, short-form media plays a notable role in self-evaluation and peer comparison among Pakistani undergraduates. Simultaneously, heavy consumption connects with weaker emotional management in daily life. These findings offer practical insights for student counsellors, educators and media psychology researchers.