Janna Han

What features of the TikTok recommendation algorithm and interface might make it effective in promoting disordered eating in teenagers and adolescents?

Started Nov. 20, 2023

Abstract or project description

This review paper will explore how the features of the TikTok recommendation algorithm and user interface are effective in promoting eating disorders in their adolescent users. It will focus on anorexia on TikTok, though it will also briefly mention the overall mental wellbeing of social media users. First, it will touch on the main features of the user interface and recommendation algorithm that have the largest impact on users. Then, it will examine how these features contribute to a push in unhealthy content towards young adults, which ultimately distort their perceptions of reality. Specifically, it will explore how the addictive nature of the algorithm leads to body dysmorphia, memory loss, attention span issues, depression, and anxiety, and why companies continue to utilize these harmful algorithms. In the end, possible solutions for both users and app developers to work on will be discussed.