Binge-watching on TikTok vs Netflix: Differences in experiences and outcomes of extensive short- vs long-form video use
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Watching short-form videos, such as those on TikTok, has become a widespread media habit, raising concerns about their potentially addictive nature. Similar concerns were previously discussed in relation to extensive TV series use on streaming platforms such as Netflix, commonly referred to as binge-watching. In this paper, we extend the definition of binge-watching to short form videos and investigate how experiences and outcomes differ between binge-watching short-form videos on social media and long-form content on video streaming platforms. We conducted a survey with 415 participants and found that short-form video use is associated with more negative self-evaluations, reduced recovery from daily stressors, and lower well-being compared to long-form video use. We also explored potential mechanisms underlying these differences and discuss avenues for future research. • Well-being was lower after binge-watching short-form videos (e.g., TikTok) than long-form videos (e.g., Netflix). • Binge-watching short form videos was associated with more negative self-evaluations and less recovery from daily stressors. • Short-form videos were experienced as less entertaining and participants remembered less well what they had watched. • Intentionality, mindfulness, and positive mindsets about media use are associated with more positive outcomes of media use.
Source: Acta Psychologica
Institutions: University of Amsterdam, University of Zurich
Language: English
Topic: Media Influence and Health
Subfield: Literature and Literary Theory
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,670
OpenAlex ID: W7155560491