During a congressional hearing on Thursday, US lawmakers criticized TikTok for promoting content that they believe negatively impacts the mental health of young users. They questioned the company’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, regarding TikTok’s significant influence on teenagers.
Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, a Republican from Washington, initiated the discussion by highlighting how quickly the app’s algorithm can surface self-harm and eating disorder content, as well as hazardous challenges that endanger youth.
Democratic Representative Frank Pallone of New Jersey pointed out that the material found on TikTok has increased feelings of emotional distress among children.
In his first congressional testimony, Chew asserted that although the majority of TikTok’s user base is over 18, the platform has taken steps to safeguard younger users.
This hearing arrives at a pivotal time for TikTok, with escalating calls from lawmakers for the Biden administration to impose a ban on the app due to national security risks. TikTok operates under the ownership of ByteDance, a Chinese technology firm.
Lawmakers inquired about the potential access the Chinese government may have to the data of American users, in addition to measures taken by TikTok to shield minors from negative content.
Republican Representative Bob Latta from Ohio echoed concerns by recounting a tragic incident involving a 10-year-old girl who suffocated while attempting a so-called “blackout challenge” inspired by videos on the platform. He argued that TikTok should not be afforded protection under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996, which grants online platforms immunity from user-generated content.
Chew responded by stating that TikTok explicitly prohibits content related to dangerous challenges.
Recently, TikTok has introduced additional parental control features and announced plans to roll out a new option that allows parents to restrict their teens from viewing videos containing specific words or hashtags.
© Thomson Reuters 2023
