By Nisrine Yaacoubi, Clinical Psychologist and Psychotherapist
“TikTok Challenges”: Fun or Danger?
TikTok challenges have taken the digital world by storm, captivating teenagers everywhere. But what makes these trends so irresistible? The answer lies in the universal need for belonging, social validation, and the thrill of taking on a challenge.
When teens see others gaining likes, comments, and attention for completing a challenge, it creates a ripple effect. Social learning kicks in, and the urge to mimic grows stronger. Add peer pressure to the mix, and you have a perfect storm where teens participate to feel connected and accepted within their circles.
Why Do Teens Love TikTok Challenges?
If you’re wondering why these challenges are so appealing, it’s because they offer several “rewards” that teenagers value deeply:
- Completing a challenge becomes a stage for teens to shine, earning them likes and comments that boost their social image.
- Positive reactions from others can give a serious lift to their self-esteem.
- Challenges create a feeling of community and connection, making teens feel like part of a larger group.
- Many teens see challenges as lighthearted fun, a game, or even a joke—minimizing the sense of risk involved.
The Dark Side of TikTok Challenges
However, behind the fun lies a more serious reality. Without proper guidance, these challenges can spiral into harmful behaviors, leading to:
- Teens can become overly attached to the cycle of validation and excitement.
- Constant comparison and the pressure to participate can harm self-esteem and well-being.
- Some challenges push boundaries too far, resulting in serious injuries—or worse.
Protecting Teens from the Dangers
So, how can we ensure that TikTok challenges remain a source of fun and not a risk? Here are some proactive steps:
- Talk about the risks, rules, and reasons behind these trends without judgment.
- Equip teens with tools to resist unhealthy influences and stand their ground.
- Encourage challenges that celebrate creativity, sports, education, or kindness.
- Help teens evaluate what they see online and understand its potential impact.
- Support them in creating posts that inspire rather than endanger.
- Offer a safe space for teens to share their struggles and concerns.
A Quest for Identity and Connection
TikTok challenges are more than just fleeting trends; they reveal the deeper emotional, social, and cultural needs of teenagers. For many, it’s a way to discover their identity and connect with peers. But as fun as they may seem, safeguarding teens from the darker side of social media is essential for their growth, safety, and overall well-being.
It’s time to strike a balance between fun and safety, ensuring that challenges remain enjoyable without compromising what truly matters—our teens’ futures.
References
Ahlse, J., Nilsson, F., & Sandström, N. (2020). It’s time to TikTok: Exploring Generation Z’s motivations to participate in Challenges.
Bossen, C.B., & Kottasz, R. (2020). Uses and gratifications sought by pre-adolescent and adolescent TikTok consumers. Young Consumers.
Conte, Giulia & Iorio, Giorgia & Esposito, Dario & Romano, Sara & Panvino, Fabiola & Maggi, Susanna & Altomonte, Benedetta & Casini, Maria & Ferrara, Mauro & Terrinoni, Arianna. (2024). Scrolling through adolescence: a systematic review of the impact of TikTok on adolescent mental health. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Falgoust, Grace & Winterlind, Emma & Moon, Prachi & Parker, Alden & Chalil Madathil, Kapil & Zinzow, Heidi. (2022). Applying the uses and gratifications theory to identify motivational factors behind young adult’s participation in viral social media challenges on TikTok. Human Factors in Healthcare.
Roth, R., Ajithkumar, P., Natarajan, G., Achuthan, K., Moon, P., Zinzow, H., & Madathil, K. C. (2021). A study of adolescents’ and young adults’ TikTok challenge participation in South India. Human Factors in Healthcare