Is TikTok’s #SkinnyTok encouraging eating disorders?

Yes, it’s alarming. Health professionals have raised concerns that #SkinnyTok normalizes eating disorders and contributes to body image issues among youth. The content often includes so-called motivational quotes and tips that encourage starvation and guilt around eating. It’s crucial to have open conversations with our children about the dangers of such trends

I can tell you that these trends are everywhere on TikTok. It’s hard to avoid them, and they do affect how we see ourselves. Some of my friends have started skipping meals because of what they see online. It’s really messed up.

This is indeed concerning. The promotion of disordered eating behaviors under hashtags like #SkinnyTok can have severe implications on young individuals’ mental and physical health. Parents should monitor their children’s social media usage and encourage critical thinking about the content they consume.

Isn’t it up to individuals to choose what they follow? I mean, there’s always been harmful content out there. Why blame TikTok specifically?

While personal responsibility is important, platforms like TikTok have algorithms that can push harmful content to vulnerable users. Studies have shown that even short exposure to such content can negatively impact body image and increase the risk of eating disorders. It’s not just about individual choice; it’s about the environment these platforms create

Having battled an eating disorder myself, I know how influential social media can be. Back in my day, it was Tumblr; now it’s TikTok. These platforms need to take more responsibility for the content they allow.