Many of us know TikTok for its fast pace and stimulating clips, but what most do not realize is how detrimental it actually is on our brains and mental health. After the uprise of TikTok in 2016, both Instagram, Snapchat, and Youtube, three other competing social media giants, added functions almost exactly the same as TikTok. While Youtube added youtube shorts, Snapchat added spotlight, and Instagram added Instagram reels, all of which provide short clips that users can quickly scroll through. Initially, TikTok became popular because of its fun dances and funny trends. However, as it has developed, the variety of types of videos that it shares has evolved, and not for the better.
First, the app's personalized video feeds can be incredibly addictive. The "For You" page is based on previously liked videos, making what you watch repetitive and monotone. The quick and fast-paced nature of the app shortens attention span and harms mental health, leading to procrastination, overstimulation, and changes in dopamine levels. As a high school student, many of my friends waste away their time on TikTok, falling down a rabbit hole of videos for hours a day. Many have told me that the majority of their screen time is taken up by TikTok and that it prevents them from getting their work done efficiently. In a survey conducted by the CDC in the spring of 2022, 48% of teenagers reported to use TikTok almost constantly or several times a day, demonstrating how popular it has become.
Second, some TikTok videos can be inappropriate or offensive, potentially hurting people's feelings. TikTok, like any other form of social media, creates a space for cyber bullies and hate comments. False information can also spread at a rapid pace, tainting the minds of younger generations. As growing brains are more prone to believing things they see on the internet, the false information spread on TikTok is especially harmful to its audience.
Another issue with TikTok is the false sense of reality and FOMO it can create. Some users make videos about their seemingly perfect lives, leading viewers to feel inadequate and like they're not doing enough. It's important to remember that what we see on social media is often just a highlight reel, and not the full picture. However, there are some creators who show a more balanced and realistic view of their lives, which can help others feel less alone.
While it's clear that TikTok has its downsides, not everything about it is bad. The app provides a platform for creators to share valuable insight and help, particularly in the realm of fitness and mental health. Many TikTok creators use their platform to promote healthy habits and body positivity, which can be incredibly beneficial to users struggling with self-esteem issues. The fun dances are also a way for users to have fun with their friends and build a sense of community.
In conclusion, TikTok's impact on mental health is not always positive. From its addictive nature to inappropriate videos and false information, the app can be harmful if not used mindfully. However, it's important to remember that not everything about TikTok is bad, and the app can provide a space for valuable insights and help when used responsibly. As with all forms of social media, it's important to approach TikTok with caution and awareness of its potential effects on our mental health.
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