Tik Tok Influencers Promote Unhealthy Habits

TikTok has become one of the most used social media apps across the world and is especially used by Generation Z, according to Adobe. It is known for its dance, lip sync and overall creative videos. But it may become a rough platform to be on for those struggling with self esteem and body issues. Although the community guidelines on TikTok state they will ban videos that “promote eating habits [and] are likely to cause health issues," there is no way to ensure that every triggering post can be taken down.

Addison Rae, a popular creator on TikTok, recently created a video that had a great impact on those who struggle with eating disorders. In the sponsored clip, Rae danced to “Prom Queen,” by Beach Bunny. The public pointed out the triggering aspects of the video. 

The song describes the artist ‘s desperation to be accepted, so she results in starvation and self harm. Many can find this song to be relatable and an outlet for mental health, but some found Rae’s video to be disrespectful and Rae was quick to delete it.

With most of her viewers being in the younger demographic, this content from her could be seen as harmful and encouraging eating disorder behavior. TikTok’s “For You Page” is curated for the viewer so if interacted with videos that do encourage unhealthy eating behaviors it maybe more likely to see more pop up. 

Teenagers can become oblivious and unconcerned when it comes to the amount of time spent on social media everyday. Although the average time teenagers spend on Tiktok is 52 minutes a day, Tiktok is known to be a captivating way to waste time and still be entertained. There is no way to ensure that all unhealthy eating habit videos are taken off but there is a way to not feed into what you’re seeing.

 With the algorithm of TikTok, you could start looking at more body positivity posts and give yourself specific affirmations that could help with what you’re struggling with.

Having a positive body image and outlook is hard when you’re someone who is struggling with your current image of yourself. With simple messages such as simply telling yourself that you love yourself or that you are beautiful, you can really make a change in the way you view yourself.

Social media could be a scary place if not used properly, it is what you make of it. It can try to define who you think you are, that is not realistic to who you truly are. Be aware of what you’re viewing and try to realize the difference of unhealthy posts and healthy ones.