TikTok’s screen-time limit tool for teens is not effective in reducing usage, according to internal documents obtained by Kentucky Public Radio and NPR. The documents reveal that TikTok executives acknowledged the dangers of excessive screen time on the app and implemented time management tools for users under 18 years old. However, the tool was found to only decrease daily usage by 1.5 minutes and was measured based on improving public trust in the platform rather than actually reducing screen time.
The goal of the time management tool, according to a TikTok project manager quoted in the documents, was not to reduce time spent on the app but rather to increase daily active users and retention. Although TikTok has also deployed videos encouraging users to take breaks, an executive admitted that they were not very effective. Despite criticisms from lawyers and internal documents revealing the inefficacy of the tool, TikTok maintains that it is committed to community safety and has implemented various safety features such as default screen time limits and family pairing.
Recently, a bipartisan group of 14 attorneys general filed lawsuits against TikTok, alleging that the platform has addicted young people and harmed their mental health. The lawsuits point out various aspects of TikTok that may contribute to these issues, including the endless scrolling feed of content, challenge videos that promote risky behavior, and late-night push notifications that can disrupt sleep. TikTok has strongly disagreed with the claims made in the lawsuits and maintains that they are inaccurate and misleading, emphasizing their commitment to protecting teens and improving their product.
The lawsuits against TikTok were filed after unredacted versions of legal filings were accidentally revealed by the Kentucky Attorney General’s office. The state judge later sealed the complaint to prevent confidential information from being disseminated. In response to the lawsuits and criticism, TikTok spokesperson Alex Haurek reiterated the platform’s commitment to protecting teens and stated that they will continue to update and improve their safety features. Despite the controversies surrounding TikTok’s impact on teens, the company stands by its efforts to prioritize community safety and well-being.
Overall, the revelations from the internal documents and lawsuits highlight the challenges that TikTok faces in managing screen time for teenagers and ensuring their safety on the platform. While TikTok has implemented some safety features, such as screen time limits and family pairing, the effectiveness of these tools is called into question by the documents and lawsuits. As the platform continues to face scrutiny and legal challenges, it remains to be seen how TikTok will address these issues and adjust its policies to better protect its younger users.
