Brain Rot Comes for Students

With the growing use of social media, new terms have begun to emerge at University Liggett School. The 2024 Oxford University Press word of the year, “brain rot,” has become a very common term in Liggett’s hallways.

"Brain rot" has come to refer to low-quality content that consists of memes, different sounds, or catchphrases. Experts say the intake of brain rot heavily impacts the way students process information.

Ned Hayes, a senior at Liggett, said “social media” is where he sees brain rot the most. 

Kanaan Taylor, a senior at Liggett, said he doesn’t see a problem with brain rot, saying, “It’s just funny.” Administrators may begin to worry about brain rot, as some students don’t realize its effects and how it impacts their daily lives. 

Brain rot has many negative effects on students, although they may not realize it. 

Andreana Benitez wrote on heart.org, “It's what happens when you consume too much low-quality online content, which is like junk food for the brain.” 

The effects of brain rot consist of reduced attention span, mental fatigue, decreased memory retention, and increased anxiety or stress. 

Susan Lotkowski wrote on edsurge.com, “Over time, this form of constant stimulation can affect your cognitive health.”

Some schools in the U.S. have already taken action against brain rot. Although Liggett has a no-phone policy, it is unclear whether or not Liggett will do more to limit students' intake of brain rot.