Parents should take note. Children are being exposed to disturbing content masquerading as fun on certain social media sites, such as TikTok. Experts told Khaleej Times that these viral pranks, which range from “how to blackout tips” to “self-harm trends,” exploit children’s and teens’ curiosity and cause them to take potentially fatal risks.
Many kids and teens experiment with unusual—and occasionally risky—trends on social media out of curiosity, peer pressure, and a desire for social recognition. Schools face the issue of preventing pupils from trying these tactics at school and from sharing them with their friends, while parents are responsible for their children at home.
According to Dr. Salman Kareem, a specialised psychiatrist at the Aster Clinic, children and teens are particularly vulnerable to viral problems because they need social approval and belonging. Children inherently yearn for their peers’ approval and admiration. He claimed that taking part in popular challenges offers a sense of community and immediate social acknowledgement.
In addition to peer pressure, neurological development is important. The prefrontal cortex, which controls impulse control and risk appraisal, is especially still developing in the adolescent brain. This makes them less able to evaluate consequences fully and more susceptible to peer pressure,” Dr. Kareem continued.
Social media sites take advantage of this weakness as well. Dopamine is released in response to likes, comments, and shares, which reinforces behavior and starts addictive cycles that can override logical judgment.
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