Seminar

Past

“Just One More Clip”: Short Videos, Big Self-Control Problems

Renjie Bao

  • Date6 November 2025
  • Time 14h00 - 15h00
  • Room Zoom

Abstract

I study self-control problems in media consumption and their amplification by short-form content. Using microdata from a U.S. short drama series, I show viewers watch 23 episodes (82%) more than intended and overspend by $5.51 (23%). A structural model reveals that temptation lasts an average of 6.6 minutes per decision, causing minute-long videos to repeatedly trigger self-control problems. Policy interventions such as default time limits and mandatory breaks can meaningfully improve consumer welfare. Extending the analysis to TikTok underscores the broader relevance of these findings.

Related document(s)

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