Like most social media platforms, TikTok has many critics. The rise of the internet and online connection is still relatively new, and people are still wary of the consequences it may produce. While some researchers may choose to focus on the adverse effects of social media, there are several benefits, especially for young people, that people need to be made aware of.
1. Connection to the World
One of the many benefits of TikTok is that relevant videos from all over the world can end up on anybody’s feed. TikTok is instrumental to modern-day culture and is responsible for much of the media and information produced and consumed by young people. For some, it is the only way they receive content from other cities, states, or countries. It’s also a way for long-distance friends from different universities or who live in other states to connect.
A perfectly curated algorithm conveniently sorts information to help users learn about events, news, sports, and people that they may have never encountered in their daily lives. The spreading of information helps keep people connected, broadens their horizons, and immerses them in new and exciting cultures. TikTok can also be a good source of less-formal journalism coverage on social issues that may not make it into a big newspaper. As college students, familiarizing ourselves as much as we can about other cultures and lifestyles is not only educational but will also ultimately enrich our experiences as human beings.
2. Critical Thinking Skills
TikTok promotes a lot of content that requires users to think about complex issues and topics. Users have the option to flag content they find inappropriate, making them think about and have an opinion on the content they are absorbing. Research also shows that young people, like college students, are aware of the downsides of media consumption and feel that being exposed to platforms like TikTok allows them to recognize and take action against problems produced by social media.
3. Finding Community
Having a sense of community or a place you feel you belong is essential for college-aged students. Research shows that teens and young adults have an increased need for peer interaction and a higher sensitivity to social exclusion. TikTok can provide a sense of support for those who are experiencing the loneliness of being away from home for the first time. With such a diverse amount of content, there are videos for anyone looking for fun, engaging, and relevant information. Creators have the opportunity to meet like-minded people who they can actively collaborate with and learn from. This can benefit adolescent development and help young people find validation no matter where they are.
Although social media platforms have developed a bad reputation, there are several benefits that are infinitely important to the culture of our young generation. So next time somebody tries to tell you you’re “wasting your time on TikTok,” remember the benefits of engaging with the platform.
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