TikTok is a popular social media platform that is mostly used by the younger generation to express themselves by singing, lip-syncing, dancing, comedy and more. TikTok is available to download in over 150 countries; it’s been downloaded over 200 million times in the United States. There are also more than 1 billion users worldwide.
The average screen time per day for a teenager is almost 8 hours. Most of that time is spent scrolling through TikTok. This app has positives and negatives. But why is it so addicting?
In an article written by Abhishek Sandikar for The Bridge Chronicle, Sanidkar states, “Most users of platforms like Instagram reels and Tik Tok belong to the young-adult age group. Individuals of this age group are specifically susceptible to addictions. Hence, the combination of the algorithm, short attention span and the need for a dopamine rush is malignant in the long run.”
Majority of the users on TikTok are teens. Teenagers are at higher risk of depression and anxiety now due to social media. TikTok has affected teens by stimulating the brain, by giving the rush of dopamine but once that rush drops the negative effects take its place. Viewing people’s “perfect” lives, perfect bodies and skin triggers low self esteem and mental health complications.
In an article called TikTok is my Therapist, Dr. Edward Hallowell, an ADHD psychiatrist and author said, “Certain symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and under-stimulation are common attributes of both depression and ADHD. Similarly, sleep problems, hyperfocus, impulsivity and emotional dysregulation overlap with mania symptoms in bipolar disorder.”
TikTok has good effects on the brain as well. This app has influencers of all categories. Depending on what you double tap, it will show more videos related. A good thing is seeing an in shape and pretty girl showing her workout routines, it has an effect on the brain and that makes you want to look like that and begin to work out.
A senior, Maeve Joyce at Northview High school that has had Tiktok ever since it was launched in September 2016 has positive things to say about this app.
“TikTok has influenced me to work out more and this app gives me fun ideas to do with my friends that keep me active,” Joyce said.
This app can be viewed as good or bad. It was made to bring more positivity, but peers can make anything good negative. TikTok has many effects on the brain. If you can limit yourself and have self control, then this app can be used in ways it’s supposed to. But exceeding your limits can lead to the bad of this app.
