The Impact Of TikTok

TikTok is a worldwide app with over one billion downloads.

TikTok

TikTok is a worldwide app with over one billion downloads.

Jasmine Galicia, Staff Writer

Have you ever heard of the app Musically? The app where everyone adored Baby Ariel? Yes. Well, if you’re thinking what I’m thinking, then you’re correct.

Musically was a Chinese social media headquarter in Shanghai that consisted of users creating videos of themselves lip-syncing. Its initial release was in August 2014. It became an internet sensation, with over 200 million downloads. However, it all changed on August 2, 2018. The app collided with TikTok, and the internet went crazy.

Many users now have TikTok in 2022. The app inspires huge trends and keeps viewers entertained. Users are able to create videos and publish them online for others to see. If lucky enough, the videos can go viral. However, many believe TikTok leaves a bad influence on the teens and kids that use it. For example, many teens now love to engage in viral trends on social media.

On September 1, 2021, a TikTok went viral. “Jugg4elias” was the starter of the devious lick trend. He posted a 15-second video stating he had stolen disposable masks from the school with the caption, “A month into school…devious lick.” This trend was extremely popular. Kids took it to the extreme level and posted videos of themselves stealing soap dispensers, doors, keys, etc. This trend was immediately taken down by TikTok.

TikTok also has many negative effects. Many users tend to bring down many other people who try to engage in the app. For example, a skinny girl with a “perfect” body posted a video of herself dancing. The video got tons of likes and comments on her appearance. However, when a girl posts something that many people believe isn’t worthy of meeting their standards, people tend to bring her down. This has been going on for a while, and many users wish it wasn’t this way. 

However, TikTok can have a positive impact. During the summer of 2020, many users stood up for the Black Lives Matter Movement. The movement became one of the most trending topics of 2020, with many celebrities showing their support. The videos consisted of all types of people coming together to support one another and the movement. TikTok even ended up on the news. The positive impact of TikTok spreads awareness and shows how thoughtful members of the community are.