Psychosocial Impact of OTT Platforms on Young Adults

Films and web series have unknowingly become a significant part of our lives. Earlier, with less content, our interaction was also limited; however, as the content grew larger, our interaction with it also increased. Over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+Hotstar have become an integral part of our lives, affecting our Habitus. This study explores the psychosocial, behavioural, and physical effects of these platforms on young adults aged 18 to 30. The researcher employed a questionnaire survey of 111 respondents, in conjunction with existing research. This study investigates the psychosocial effects of binge-watching on young adults and society as a whole. The findings suggest that long watch hours often lead to disturbed sleep, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, mood changes, and a decline in face-to-face engagement with family and friends. While OTT platforms offer unmatched convenience and cultural variety, they also introduce risks that are often overlooked. The study recommends increasing awareness among users, conducting additional research into long-term effects, and implementing proactive measures by policymakers to promote healthier digital habits.