Tiktok Short Videos and Evolutionary Psychology: Insights and Research Highlights

Short Videos and Evolutionary Psychology: Insights and Research Highlights

The rapid rise of short videos as a dominant media form can be better understood through the lens of evolutionary psychology. From storytelling's adaptive functions to the neurobiological appeal of quick, engaging content, this article explores research findings that highlight the deep-seated human drives behind our fascination with short-form video content.

1. The Evolutionary Function of Storytelling

Storytelling has long been a critical aspect of human evolution. Dunbar (1996) proposed that storytelling evolved as a social tool to enhance group cohesion and facilitate the sharing of vital information. Boyd (2009) emphasized its role in predicting social risks and rewards, while Sugiyama (2001) highlighted how traditional narratives often contain survival-related lessons, such as resource acquisition and mate selection.

2. Narrative Immersion in Visual Media

Modern video formats amplify storytelling's impact. Hasson et al. (2008) discovered that when individuals watch narrative videos, their brain activity synchronizes with the unfolding story, providing a biological basis for narrative immersion. Morin (2016) found that vivid video content with strong emotional tension enhances memory retention and empathetic responses, explaining the compelling nature of engaging video narratives.

3. Short Videos and Attention Mechanisms

Short videos are particularly effective at capturing attention. Zhang et al. (2022) revealed that rapid scene changes and intense visual stimuli in short-form content activate the brain's dopamine system, reinforcing immediate reward pathways. Research on TikTok user behavior (Anderson et al., 2021) shows that short videos align with the evolutionary behavior of “information foraging,” satisfying our innate desire for novel and stimulating narratives.

4. Social Functions of Storytelling

Storytelling's social role persists in modern entertainment. Peterson (2018) likened platforms like TikTok to the “”campfire storytelling” of ancient times, fulfilling our need for emotional connection. Mesoudi (2008) noted that narratives enhance cultural knowledge transmission through imitation, providing adaptive advantages to group members.

5. Time Fragmentation and Short Video Popularity

The fragmented nature of modern life makes short videos especially appealing. Uncapher et al. (2019) found that fragmented attention spans favor short-form content. Cheng et al. (2020) connected this preference to ancestral decision-making needs, where quick information processing was essential for survival.

6. Emotional Resonance and Memory

The emotional intensity of short videos contributes to their memorability. Green et al. (2004) showed that emotionally charged narratives leave lasting neural imprints, while Brewer & Lichtenstein (1982) found that structured stories are more memorable and socially transmissible.

Conclusion

Short videos leverage evolutionary traits such as the desire for compelling stories, the need for quick information processing, and the power of emotional engagement. By understanding these dynamics through evolutionary psychology, we gain insights into the enduring appeal of this modern storytelling medium and its role in shaping human behavior and culture.