TikTok Will Soon Block Teenagers From Using Beauty Filters Over Mental Health Concerns. (Image: Canva)
Amid concerns of anxiety and falling self-esteem among children, TikTok is placing age restrictions on some of its beauty filters. Some of the changes rolling out include preventing under-18s from using certain appearance-altering effects, and expanding filter descriptions to specify what the filters adjust when applied.
The press release read, "The report also identified new insights about teens' use of effects and the impact this has on their sense of self. A clear distinction was drawn between effects designed to be obvious and funny and effects designed to alter your appearance. Specifically, teens and parents raised concerns about 'appearance' effects, including that those viewing the content might not realise it had been altered."
The restrictions will apply to filters, such as “Bold Glamour”, which change children’s features drastically. Comic filters that add bunny ears or dog noses will not be removed. The effectiveness of the restrictions will depend on people using the platform under their real age.
Meanwhile, the Australian government has passed a new law which bans children under 16 from using social media apps, like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. The new law by the Australian government requires tech companies like Meta and TikTok to prevent minors from logging in or they could face fines of up to $49.5 million.
In today's digital era, children’s exposure to screens remains inevitable. Whether for education or entertainment, digital media has become a significant part of their daily lives. A recent study offers a refreshing perspective: instead of restricting screen time, parents should consider joining their kids in consuming digital content.
The study, led by Jamie Lingwood of Liverpool Hope University and Gemma Taylor of the University of Salford, highlights the benefits of shared screen time. By engaging with digital media alongside their children, parents can foster a more enriching and positive experience.
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