Why Teens Are Addicted to TikTok ?

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At the heart of this fascination is a formidable algorithm. Justine Atlan, director of the e-Enfance association, explains to Le Figaro: “Its power lies in the performance of its algorithm, which aims to keep Internet users on the Internet for as long as possible and to make them come back as often as possible.” This advanced personalization of the user experience eliminates boredom and the desire to switch off.

The application generates constant excitement thanks to the permanent renewal of the videos offered. In addition, the very fine adaptation of the algorithm to the tastes and behaviors of users makes the network even more addictive.

Music, a key element of TikTok's DNA, also plays an important role in its success among young people. In addition, the format of the application, presenting only one video at a time, reduces the cognitive load for the user. All he has to do is follow or reject the proposal: he thus simplifies the experience and encourages continuous consumption.

TikTok, the new Google for teenagers?

More worryingly, TikTok is becoming the preferred search engine for young people. In the United States, two out of three users use it for this purpose. This trend raises questions about access to information. However, TikTok's algorithm selects content based on user preferences. This creates biases and tunnel effects that prevent younger people from accessing a variety of information. Enough to increase conspiracy theories and fake news.

Faced with these concerns, the authorities are reacting. In Europe, the Digital Services Regulation (DSA) has imposed new obligations on TikTok since the beginning of the year. Brussels has launched an investigation into the “risks linked to the addictive design” of the social network. In the United States, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew has been questioned twice by Congress, accused of having “addicted” a section of American youth. More recently, the US Department of Justice filed a complaint against TikTok. Across the Atlantic, the social network is even threatened with a ban.

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Under pressure, the company is taking action. The group announced a $2 billion investment to strengthen protection for its young users. It employs 40,000 people to moderate content in more than 70 languages. A Youth Council has also been created to improve online safety.

Among the initiatives implemented, TikTok claims to have suspended nearly 20 million accounts of users under the age of 13. Screen time is limited by default to 60 minutes for minors.

“We have identified sensitive themes, such as loneliness, sadness, extreme fitness, diets… and we are constantly evolving this list to educate the algorithm.” explains Emer Cassidy, TikTok's regional policy manager for Europe and the Middle East.

Worried families

These efforts are welcomed by some critics, who now consider TikTok and Instagram to be “good students” in terms of adolescent protection.

But for some families, these measures remain insufficient. A collective called Algos Victima, bringing together eight families, plans to file a “reparations claim” in September.

This action comes in a context where complaints against social networks are increasing. In 2022, an important precedent was set in the United Kingdom, where the courts recognized Meta's partial responsibility for the suicide of Molly, a 14-year-old girl.

• Teens are completely addicted to TikTok
• The high-performance algorithm is the main culprit for this addiction
• TikTok becomes the number one news platform for young people, which raises many concerns

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