Written by: Isabelle Jones | Lifestyle Editor
Content warning: this article contains mentions of suicide
With Inauguration Day right around the corner, many Americans are keeping a close eye on Jan. 19. Recently, the Supreme Court has weighed whether TikTok is considered safe for Americans. This hot topic has one wondering how the app currently affects its users. Just like any other social media platform, it has its benefits and its faults — but a deeper look into the app might provide some clarity on its effects.
TikTok is a social media platform that allows users to create and share short form content. Gen Z and millennials alike flocked to the app when it went viral back in 2018. Many of its current users argue that TikTok needs to remain untouched by the federal government because their intervention would be a violation of the First Amendment. Indeed, TikTok has connected the world in a way like no other platform. Its ability to give anyone a voice and possibly have it reach millions of people is very enticing. Anyone can become an advocate and spread awareness to the masses, unlike other platforms like Instagram or Facebook, whicho rely more on follower count, celebrity status or celebrity endorsement.
Another reason for TikTok’s popularity is its plethora of niche communities, or safe spaces. Many users are able to easily connect with others who share similar interests, lifestyles, sexual orientations, values and so forth. With the app mainly enjoyed by younger generations, many communities are able to freely share their experiences.
While a ban may feel like a major loss for many, it could potentially serve as a turning point for social media culture. TikTok has come under scrutiny for its lack of regulations on handling the exposure of cyberbullying and inappropriate content. There are major concerns of the negative effects of TikTok’s algorithm, one of which being that it provides a sense of instant gratification. With a single swipe of a finger, a user is exposed to a variety of content, helping the system learn what the user is interested in. In a short period of time, the algorithm provides content that a user wants to engage in. With this, a user can spend hours on the app not realizing how much time has passed. A ban would encourage Americans to take a break from their screens.
Another reason why a ban might be beneficial is that TikTok can push inappropriate or harmful content. TikTok cannot keep up with the amount of content that its creators push out. With a younger audience, users can be exposed to obscene content such as indecent exposure, crime, self-harm and extreme violence.
Lastly, TikTok is just like any other platform. There are harmful trends and unrealistic beauty standards that get pushed towards its young and impressionable audience. With cyberbullying running rampant, and TikTok helping just about anyone go viral, it can fall to the toxic, and at times dangerous, side of the app. With poor mental health and, sadly, suicide happening at an alarming rate, the question remains: has TikTok done more good than harm? Should Americans accept the loss of their favorite app?
Contact the author at howllifestyle@wou.edu
