In recent years, TikTok has been one of the main focuses of debates across many governments worldwide. Countries such as India have implemented outright bans, while others, including the United States, have bounced around the idea of limiting access to the app due to security concerns and its impact on society. While many users deplore these measures, it’s worth considering: Could banning TikTok actually become a good thing?
The main reason why the U.S. government started suggesting the idea of banning TikTok, was because officials claimed that it imposed a possible security and privacy threat. Owned by the Chinese company, ByteDance, TikTok has faced several accusations of misusing user data and allegedly handing it out to foreign governments. As governments around the world become more aware of the many risks involving cybersecurity, TikTok has become an easy target to take down.
However, aside from the political debates, TikTok ‘s addictive layout and design has also set off concerns among parents, educators, and psychologists. The app’s algorithm, which is what comes up in the “For You Page”, is designed and individually assigned to each user so that they only consume content that they’re interested in, making them scroll in the app for hours. The hyper-consumption of short, dopamine-spiking videos reduces our attention-span making it hard for kids and adults to focus on real life commitments such as work and school and a disrupted sleep schedule.
On January 18, at about 10:30 PM EST TikTok was unable to be used by its 170 million American users after the Supreme Court upheld a federal ban on the app. This decision was met with mixed reactions from sadness to joy, people around the map were feeling different emotions regarding the ban. However, several hours later TikTok was once again able to be accessed in the United States. This leaves us wondering, if TikTok had been banned permanently, what would’ve changed?
For one, the time reclaimed could be spent on activities that foster creativity, meaningful relationships, and learning. Studies have revealed that excessive social media use can harm mental health, causing feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression, especially among young users. TikTok’s “For You Page” often bombards users with unattainable beauty standards, viral challenges, and trends that impact teenagers self esteem and livelihood negatively.
While it’s true that TikTok has provided a platform for many creators, small businesses, and educators, it’s important to ask whether the benefits outweigh the outcomes. A potential ban isn’t just about the app itself but about reimagining how we use technology.
Perhaps, stepping away from TikTok could lead to healthier habits, sharper focus on education, and a world where our personal data isn’t at risk. While a TikTok ban might seem inconvenient or unfair to some people, it could be a step toward a brighter, more balanced future.
By reflecting on how we engage with platforms like TikTok, we might find new ways to enjoy technology without sacrificing our privacy, time, or well-being. Sometimes, losing one app could mean gaining so much more.
