Visual Distraction

Visual elements in an interface or content that draw attention away from the primary content or task, including animated advertisements, moving backgrounds, decorative overlays, notification badges, recommended content panels, and complex visual layouts. Visual distractions are particularly problematic for users with ADHD, who may have difficulty filtering irrelevant visual stimuli. WCAG guidelines address some aspects of visual distraction (such as auto-playing content), but many common sources of distraction on video platforms—like recommended video sidebars and overlaid visual effects—are not covered by current standards.