A Study on the Impact of Short Video Platforms on Teenagers’ Spending Habits

Abstract

With the rapid popularity of short video platforms, teenagers’ consumption habits have been increasingly shaped by them. This paper takes short video platforms and teenagers’ consumption behaviors as its main focus. Drawing on existing literature and publicly available data, it systematically examines how short videos influence teenagers through algorithmic recommendation, content dissemination, and social interaction. The findings suggest that current teenage spending is characterized by “small but frequent purchases, concentrated product categories, convenient payment, and impulsive behavior.” Further analysis shows that factors such as algorithm-driven consumption concepts, peer conformity, and commercial modeling have made short video platforms a major force influencing teenage consumption. Beyond overspending, other risks include false advertising, hidden promotions, and privacy issues. Based on these findings, this paper proposes improving platform governance, strengthening legal regulations, and enhancing family and school education to promote rational consumption among teenagers. The rise of short video platforms has also led to new consumption patterns, bringing both opportunities and challenges to teenagers’ healthy development. Theoretically and practically, this study deepens our understanding of the relationship between media and consumption, and offers references for governments, platforms, and educational institutions.