Press Hits: Disseminating Information through the Mass Media - TikTok Dare: Professionals Caution Against Risky Acts of Bravery
On video platforms like TikTok, various internet challenges have caught the attention of millions of young people around the world. While some challenges can be entertaining, others can pose significant health risks. The Youth and Media Advice Center Hessen cautions, "Challenges can have a playful and fun premise. They can also be very risky and threatening to one's health or even one's life."
One example of this is the "Hot Chip Challenge" which gained popularity among children and young people last year. According to police, a 10-year-old boy from the Lahn-Dill district had to be hospitalized after taking part in this challenge. The challenge involved eating extremely sharp chips, which the chip manufacturer has since discontinued.
Clinical Psychologist Julia Brailovskaia, who has studied the effects of social media on people for 15 years, explained, "Young people participate in these challenges to gain recognition on platforms like TikTok. They want to be liked, popular, possibly even become influencers because that's quite trendy now."
To gain popularity and succeed in the algorithm, users must do something unique or daring. As Dr. Brailovskaia puts it, "The more extreme the actions, the more likes and followers they receive. This encourages their behavior. And to maintain their popularity, they have to do something even more intense." Ultimately, the fear of danger fades or is overshadowed by the desire for popularity.
In conclusion, while internet challenges may seem exciting and fun, it's crucial to remember that they can come with adverse consequences for one's health and wellbeing.
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In response to the rising popularity of dangerous challenges on platforms like TikTok, the Frankfurt Media Authority has instituted stricter regulations for creators and content providers.
Critics argue that due to the commercial nature of TikTok, the platform prioritizes entertainment over health and safety concerns, leading to situations where young users are pressured into participating in risky activities.
Meanwhile, the University of Hesse is conducting a study to explore the relationship between social media and mental health in youth, aiming to develop effective strategies to promote responsible media usage.
Recognizing the power of media, some professionals have started using video platforms to spread positive messages, encouraging young people to engage in activities that promote health and wellness instead of participating in dangerous challenges.
The Health Department in the city of Kassel has launched a campaign to raise awareness about the risks associated with internet challenges and to encourage parents and educators to monitor their children's online activities more closely.
To demonstrate the potential consequences of participating in risky challenges, local television stations in the Lahn-Dill district have aired documentaries and special reports highlighting the stories of individuals who have suffered serious injuries as a result of such challenges.
