Association Between Short-Form Video Screen Time and ADHD-Like Symptoms among College Students in Dhaka: A Cross-Sectional Study

This cross-sectional study examines the relationship between daily short-form video screen time (Reels/Shorts) and ADHD-like symptoms among 305 college students in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Using the WHO Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1), the research explores how excessive digital consumption correlates with attention-related challenges. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 305 college students (aged 14–21) in Dhaka. ADHD symptoms were assessed using the WHO Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1). Results: 43.3% of participants screened positive for ADHD-like symptoms. A significant correlation was found (p < 0.001), where students spending >4 hours/day showed a 60% positive screening rate compared to only 15% for those spending <1 hour. Conclusion: Higher consumption of short-form videos is significantly associated with increased ADHD-like symptoms in this population.