We are increasingly living in peak times. The sheer amount of content, especially the Internet, that is available to all users, makes it not only sometimes difficult to choose, but also the way in which more and more people are consuming this content repeatedly. Something that has caused a new phenomenon to emerge: speed control.
Basically, “speed monitoring” can be translated as watching content at high speed. That is, consuming films, series, videos and other types of audio-visual content at higher speeds than usual, thus seeking to maximize the amount of information absorbed in the shortest possible time. but Is this really a healthy practice? What does science say about it?
Control speed, put quantity before quality
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Thus, speed control refers to the practice of viewing multimedia content at faster speeds than it was originally produced. aware of that, Streaming platforms, e.g Netflix, Youtube And other services, including features that allow users to accelerate playback to X1.5, X2, or moreWhich results in a faster viewing experience.
This trend has gained popularity among those looking to consume more content in less time, whether due to time constraints or simply a sense of accomplishment in “finishing” more material.
Although it can occur in people of any age, it mainly affects younger users. Naturally, this means not visualizing the work as it was developed by its creators. But its disadvantages go beyond that.
For a start, It has been shown that viewing content at high speed can affect information comprehension and retention. Important details can be lost when the viewing frequency increases, reducing the quality of the viewing experience. according to American Psychological AssociationThis is especially important when it comes to minors.
After discussing the topic in depth, they say: “The elderly have a formed brain, but a minor, teenager or young person is in the construction stage, so their brain is much more fragile and weaker.”
Speed control can cause inattention. The mind gets used to speed, which may affect the ability to focus on tasks that require patience and thought.
Can speed control affect mental health?
It seems well established that speed monitoring is not the best way to consume and understand something, at least from the point of view of understanding and analyzing it. But in fact, there are no studies that indicate a significant negative impact on mental health, in the medium or long term. Yes, however, it can lead to bouts of anxiety or pressure. The explanation is very simple.
The speed at which content can be viewed can create a feeling of pressure to consume more, Create a mentality of collecting materials rather than enjoying and contemplating each work.
Thus, the constant search to consume more content in less time can contribute to stress and anxiety. The mind is constantly stimulated and challenged, which can have negative effects on mental health, especially in young people.
Therefore, everything will be related to the feeling of “reward” when consuming more series, videos or whatever, the better. An experience closely tied to networking and other aspects of today’s society, where it sometimes seems more important to say or share something has been accomplished, rather than the joy of enjoying it. Really by himself.
