TikTok: Gen Z’s Darling!
TikTok started to gain traction globally as it has been the No 1 app on the worldwide App Store. Initially, when the app was noticed, it was being downloaded as a “joke” and because “everyone else was doing it.” However, this “joke” became an obsession and has taken Gen Z’s digital world by storm. The understanding and use of social media to Gen Z’s marks TikTok as the first truly global social media app of this generation. TikTok “goofey-yet-appealing” blend of short videos is the key to its success in the “CringeWorthy” that makes it “Oddly Addictive”
Generation Z is one of the most diverse generations, they are a true digital native as they were exposed to the internet and social networks very early. “From a content standpoint, it is a platform that has enabled everyone to speak in their own language and from a highly unique, creative lense.” This generation has a desperate need for being themselves. TikTok doesn’t portray the picture of ‘the perfect life’ ‘the perfect body’ the ‘perfect relationship’. The nature of TikTok appears to be “more real and raw and comedic” The raw content makes Gen Z’s feel relatable in a ‘that’s so me’ sense of a way. Gen Z’s tend to favor social media platforms that are more visually-oriented. As Gen Z’s play a social role of creating trends, the tangible chances of virality captures their hearts. TikTok is more of content discovery platform “So it’s become a place where you can be your own weird self and still get complimented and [have your posts] go viral for that”(Ting,2020) As many Gen Z TikTok user were able to reach celebrity level of fame.
Safety is questionable in every social media platform. “there is always the possibility for inappropriate behavior, especially when minors are involved.”(Rimm,2020) TikTok can be considers “unsafe” due to many facts from inappropriate content to user data security. As TikTok is a platform to showcase talents, “This can make it easy for predators to use flattery and compliments as a way into kids’ lives, making them feel special while putting them at ease.”(Brown,2020) Alongside many other more serious issues surrounding mental health, anxiety, addiction and cyberbullying. As TikToks content could be highly personal and sensitive sometimes reactions to posts might encourage self-harm. When videos aren’t funny or successful, they’re referred to as ‘cringey’. Also, taking into account that popularity on TikTok is based on challenges which can often be dangerous.
It is undeniable that Gen Z’s can’t get enough of TikTok. As being a motivated generation, TikTok is fascinating because it gives them a new kind of power. “TikTok might well be the latest globally heralded social media app to make a major splash with Gen Z, but will its influence last? That remains to be seen.”(Wheeler,2018)
