The Psychological Impact of Excessive TikTok Use on Teenagers

In an era where social media dominates daily life, the excessive use of platforms like TikTok is raising serious concerns about its psychological effects on teenagers. While social media offers entertainment and connectivity, studies indicate that prolonged exposure, particularly exceeding two hours per day, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and risky behaviors. Understanding the consequences of such digital consumption is crucial for fostering healthier online habits. Alarming Trends A recent study published in the journal Nature by researchers from the Open University of Catalonia and Pompeu Fabra University in Spain revealed that one in five teenagers spends more than two hours daily on TikTok. This surpasses recommended social media usage limits and is linked to increased risks of anxiety, depression, sadistic aggressive behavior, and impulsive decision-making. TikTok’s unique algorithm and interface set it apart from other social media platforms like Instagram, X (former...