Algorithmic Neuro-Stimulation and the Attentional Gate: A Neuropsychological Evaluation of TikTok’s Feedback Loops in Eliciting Secondary ADHD Symptoms in Children

Abstract

This study assesses the effect of algorithmic neurostimulation and attentional gating processes on the incitement of secondary symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children aged 8-12 years who experienced the feedback-based structure of TikTok's content. The type of study design was a cross-sectional study, and the sample size was 40 children chosen using a stratified random sampling method, depending on age and gender. Pediatric outpatient departments (OPDs), child psychology clinics, and selected primary schools were the research locations, as they described both clinical manifestations and actual behavioural manifestations. The validated instruments, such as the Conners Rating Scale-Revised (CPRS-R) to assess ADHD symptomatology, the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) to assess behavioral patterns, the Digit Span Test, and the Stroop Color-Word Test to measure attention and executive functioning, and a Structured Screen-Time and TikTok Usage Questionnaire to record the frequency, duration, and engagement with algorithmically curated content, were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis were used as statistical analysis methods to establish the relation between patterns of TikTok exposure and attentional outcomes. The results showed that there is a meaningful interaction between long-term exposure to algorithm-based short-form video material and the development of inattention, impulsivity, and decreased sustainability of attention, which suggests the existence of secondary symptoms of ADHD, but not primary neurodevelopmental ADHD. These findings underscore the importance of disruption of the attentional gate by a continuous loop of algorithmic feedback and the need to screen children early, counsel parents, and follow evidence-based guidelines to control exposure to highly arousing digital media environments.