The US government has recently passed a law that could potentially result in the banning of TikTok unless its parent company ByteDance agrees to divest its US holdings within nine months. This decision has sparked mixed reactions among the public.
While many are celebrating the potential ban of TikTok, citing the app’s negative impact on children’s self-esteem and attention spans, experts are cautioning against the removal of the popular short-form video platform. They argue that it serves as a crucial medium for small businesses and online creators.
The negative effects of TikTok, particularly on young women, have been highlighted by research. These effects include making individuals feel the need to constantly improve themselves, body consciousness, aspiring to emulate content creators, and feeling bad about themselves due to negative comments on the platform.
Organizations like the Children’s Society in the UK have also criticized TikTok for promoting toxic masculinity, which involves traits like toughness, anti-femininity, and the perception that power equates to worth. Furthermore, TikTok has been accused of promoting negative body image and potentially fostering addictive behavior due to continuous scrolling through posts.
On the positive side, Oxford Economics has pointed out that TikTok plays a significant role in driving economic growth in the US by supporting businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to the GDP. Dr. Jolivette Wallace from Southern New Hampshire University emphasized the importance of TikTok in modern marketing strategies and its impact on influencers, small businesses, and job opportunities.
Despite the controversy surrounding TikTok, the platform continues to be a popular choice for many users, providing a diverse range of perspectives and content. The ongoing legal battle between TikTok and the US government reflects the complexity of the situation, with the social media company asserting its right to free speech and challenging the ban law.
