TikTok's Design Criticized for Compulsive Use Among Kids

TikTok is under scrutiny for its design, which the European Union has labeled as a "compulsive use" trap for users, particularly children. The EU has indicated that TikTok needs to change its design to mitigate risks, with potential fines of up to six percent of its global revenue if it fails to comply.

The app's features, such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, and highly personalized notifications, are designed to keep users engaged for longer periods, which has raised concerns about children's screen time and mental health. The EU's investigation, set to begin in February 2024, reveals that TikTok has done little to protect children from excessive use.

Parents are left struggling to control their children's screen time, often resulting in negative consequences like sleep deprivation and anxiety. The EU aims to enforce changes to ensure a safer environment for children on social media platforms, while Nigerian parents are urged to monitor their children's usage closely.