Concerns From TikTok Trends

Courtesy+of+The+Guardian.+

Courtesy of The Guardian.

While some trends from TikTok are entertaining and tend to be imitated, there should be consideration towards disturbing others that aren’t participating.

New trending TikTok challenges are occurring in many schools. The trend consists of each month having a specific theme: oversleep in August, vandalize restrooms in September, smack a staff member on the back in October, etc.

“The trend is stupid. For one, it’s extremely immature to destroy something in order to gain negative attention,” Science teacher Amanda Mosier said. “Secondly, they’re not hurting anyone but themselves. I mean, they’ll only end up getting less bathrooms to use.”

Students that follow the trends likely crave recognition. According to effectiviology, people want to conform with others to gain their approval or attention.

“I think the monthly school TikTok trend is a waste of time; it shows how students don’t fear getting in trouble and don’t think that their actions will affect them,” Junior Sidney Garcia said. “They should be scared of consequences as they probably don’t want to be known as a person who causes trouble.”

Morality and fear can be forgotten when acting on impulse, especially when there is potential for recognition. Though selfish thoughts are valuable towards self-care, the consideration of others should be prioritized when not alone.

“At first it was funny, but it got annoying quickly when they started to steal soap,” Junior Josh Alpert said. “People started to vandalize by stealing mirrors and doors leading to bathrooms getting shut down. It just got really unfunny when they were interfering with everyone’s lives.” 

When the trend started in August, some people thought of it as humor. The trend later progressed into September where illegal activities ensued.

“If it’s harmless I can’t see why not follow the trend, I guess it’s not bad when both sides of the party join as long as they don’t vandalize everything,” Senior Drew Nagel said. “It can be fun as it gives a good laugh. As of right now, I don’t think they’re going too far with the trend.” 

Some view the trend as disrespectful or harmful while others think of it as a fun experience. As long as there are moral limits towards any type of TikTok trend, it can be considered enjoyable. 

“I think it’s pointless doing all of this,” Sophomore Joy Jadhav said. “You’re not gaining anything out of it. You’ll only lose privileges like mega lunch and plus, if you’re gonna do what some of the trends offer, you could at least make it fun and not disrespectful.”

Immoral actions can lead to punishment, not only for an individual but towards many that aren’t even involved. Trends are worth following provided that they aren’t harmful. 

“Because TikTok nowadays is a platform where people can show themselves and gain attention,” Sophomore Ava Bronstad said. “I’m against the trend because I feel like they are destroying our school’s reputation and causing a loss in trust between students and faculty members due to irresponsibility of the student body.”