TikTok:how it influences the mentality of teenagers

TikTok has 1.7 billion users worldwide and its global success continues to grow rapidly. The Chinese social network is perfectly designed to create addiction to its use, just like other platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, among many others.

This is potentially dangerous for the mentality of teenagers, who have not finished developing their personality. The secret of TikTok's massive success is that the infinity of short videos it shows is faithfully adapted to each user profile. This generates a false sense of community among users. Its endless scrolling structure of short videos allows to consume content without a break, making teenagers lose track of time.

This design prevents them from limiting their time on the platform, which negatively affects their mental health. Adolescents are more vulnerable due to their stage of development. The prestigious journal Nature has warned about this scourge. As they spend more time on TikTok, they lose control over their consumption, and this prolonged exposure can impact their capacity for self-control and emotional balance. This lack of limits on use impairs attention span and increases stress levels. Using a social network causes structural changes in the brain: people become more impulsive and less able to manage problems, which is where everything gets out of balance.

#Irreversible damage

TikTok is aware of the mental health damage it causes among teenagers, according to a report by the organization National Public Radio. Various documents show that TikTok employees knew that the excessive time that teenagers spend on any social network can be harmful to their mental health. The report notes that the platform managed to determine the exact number of views it takes for an individual to become obsessed with TikTok: 260 videos. This social network knows recognizes that its design was created to increase the number of users. The platform has created a constant and imperative need to keep entering this social network again and again.

A large amount of research around the world states that compulsive use is related to a number of negative consequences for mental health, such as loss of analytical ability, memory development, contextual thinking, conversational depth, empathy and increased anxiety. It also damages essential personal habits such as getting enough sleep, work, university responsibilities and connecting with friends and family. Teenagers are the most harmed when using any social network, because they are not yet developing their personality and are vulnerable to any ill-intentioned strategy to capture them.

#Strong personality

So that teenagers do not become addicted to TikTok or any social network, it is advisable to help them have their own criteria and not get carried away by what a platform dictates.Building a strong personality in teenagers is essential for their development into confident, resilient adults. This process involves nurturing their self-esteem, encouraging independence, and instilling strong values. Teaching core values such as honesty, kindness, and respect from an early age lays the foundation for good character. Discussing ethical dilemmas can help them navigate complex social situations as they mature.

Every teenager has a unique temperament. Understanding whether your teen is strong-willed or more compliant can guide your parenting approach. Acknowledging their natural determination can turn perceived challenges into opportunities for growth.

Raising teenagers requires significant patience. They will test boundaries, but this is part of their learning process. Being flexible and adaptable to their changing needs helps build a supportive environment. Engaging in active listening—where you fully concentrate, understand, and respond to what they say—can strengthen your relationship and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings more openly. Mutual respect is crucial. Treating your teen with dignity fosters a trusting relationship where they feel valued and understood.

Allowing teenagers to make choices empowers them and fosters a sense of control over their lives. This could range from daily decisions to larger life choices.

Instead of dictating solutions, involve your teen in finding answers to challenges they face. This collaborative approach not only enhances their decision-making skills but also strengthens your bond.