Is Gen Z Using TikTok in a Concerning Way?

In a recent study, it was found that 1 out of every 3 Gen Zers uses TikTok on a daily basis. While this may not seem like a concerning statistic at first glance, it becomes alarming when we examine how some members of this generation are using the app.

Take the case of 16-year-old Sarah, who spends hours scrolling through TikTok videos every night before bed. At first, she just found the app to be a source of entertainment. But as she continued to watch, she found herself becoming more and more obsessed with the perfectly curated lives of the influencers on the platform. She began to compare herself to them, feeling inadequate and unworthy.

Unfortunately, Sarah's experience is not unique. TikTok has been criticized for perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and promoting unhealthy behaviors like fad diets and extreme workouts.

According to a survey conducted by the National Eating Disorders Association, 69% of young adults say that social media directly impacts their idea of the "perfect" body. Another study found that nearly a quarter of millennials and Gen Zers have skipped meals in order to save calories for drinking later.

These disturbing statistics demonstrate the dangerous impact social media can have on our health and self-esteem.

and Case Studies

In addition to the survey data, there are countless personal anecdotes and case studies that illustrate the harmful effects of using TikTok irresponsibly.

For example, there's the story of Olivia, a 14-year-old who began participating in dangerous challenges on TikTok after seeing popular influencers do them. She ended up injuring herself trying to recreate a stunt she saw on the app.

There's also the case of Ben, a 17-year-old who struggled with depression and anxiety. He found himself spiraling when he spent too much time on TikTok, comparing himself to other users and feeling like he didn't measure up.

Practical Tips

If you're a Gen Zer who uses TikTok or any other social media platform, it's important to be mindful of how it's affecting your mental health and well-being. Here are some practical tips:

• Limit your screen time. Set a daily or weekly limit for how much time you spend on social media, and stick to it.
• Be selective about who you follow. Choose influencers and accounts that promote body positivity and healthy habits, rather than those that perpetuate unrealistic standards.
• Take breaks. If you find yourself feeling consumed by social media, take a break for a day or two. Disconnecting can be a great way to clear your head and reset.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while TikTok and other social media platforms can be fun and entertaining, they can also be dangerous if not used responsibly. It's up to individual users to be mindful of how they're utilizing these apps, and to take steps to protect themselves from negative influences. By implementing practical tips like limiting screen time and being selective about who you follow, we can ensure that social media has a positive impact on our lives instead of a negative one.