After my last two blogs, many approached me to ask if I support the recent trend of creating short-form videos, which we call Reels. Talking to them, especially parents, I found that they were apprehensive of the negative effects of the trend, and quite justifiably so. But again, with everything new, before we mature, it is not uncommon to misuse them.

However, these discussions prompted me to write about the aspects of reel creation that we should be cautious about. I had planned it for later, but bringing it up the timeline is fine.

Reels have the potential to empower many in rural communities, providing a platform for self-expression and economic opportunities. However, this potential is accompanied by several negative impacts that warrant critical examination.

One of the most immediate negative effects of Reels is the potential for distraction. The addictive nature of short-form video content can lead to significant time spent watching and creating videos, keeping the creators and viewers away from more productive activities. In rural areas, where daily labor and agricultural work are crucial for livelihoods, this distraction can result in decreased productivity and, consequently, reduced income.

The constant exposure to curated, idealized lives on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. For rural users, the disparity between their reality and the glamorous content they consume can exacerbate dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. This psychological impact is particularly concerning given the limited access to mental health care in rural areas.

The focus on creating and consuming Reels can strain family and community relationships. Traditional rural life emphasizes community bonds and collective activities. The individualistic nature of social media engagement can reduce participation in communal events and weaken social ties. Additionally, excessive screen time can affect interpersonal relationships within families, leading to conflicts and reduced quality time spent together.

It might be worthwhile to mention that the core of the microfinance industry in this country relies on the social bonding of rural India, where groups get together to stand a guarantee for each other while availing loans. The weakening of social bonds may cause adverse effects of varied nature for rural entrepreneurs.

In my last blog, I discussed the benefits of short-form videos in generating revenue, but we also need to be cautious about allocating resources that support the business. Creating high-quality Reels often requires investment in smartphones, internet data, and sometimes additional accessories like tripods or lighting. For many in rural India, these expenditures can strain limited financial resources. To pay for creating digital content, one could be tempted to spend the money set aside for education, healthcare, or even business production.

I will cover other perspectives in my subsequent blogs. In essence, short-form videos such as Reels offer exciting opportunities for rural India; it is essential to recognize and address the associated negative impacts. By fostering responsible use and ensuring equitable access, we can mitigate the adverse effects and enable rural communities to harness the positive potential of digital media.