Recent reports show teenagers are spending more time on TikTok. Parents and experts are worried. Many say stronger rules are needed to protect young users. A study by the National Digital Research Center found teens average over 90 minutes daily on the app. Some use it for over three hours. Parents argue this affects schoolwork, sleep, and mental health.
(Tiktok Teenagers’ Usage Time Attracts Attention, Parents Call For Stronger Supervision)
Sarah Thompson, a mother from Ohio, shared her concerns. “My 14-year-old stays up until 2 a.m. scrolling. Grades dropped. She’s always tired.†Similar stories are common online. Advocacy groups like Parents for Safe Screens are pushing for age limits and time controls. They want TikTok to add stricter features.
TikTok’s current tools let parents set screen time limits. But many teens bypass these. The app’s algorithm keeps showing videos they like. This makes it hard to stop. Dr. Alan Carter, a child psychologist, says, “Endless content feeds addiction. Teens lack self-control. Platforms must take responsibility.â€
Lawmakers are listening. Last month, a U.S. Senate committee discussed social media’s impact on youth. TikTok’s CEO testified. He promised better safeguards. Critics say progress is slow. Some states are drafting bills to limit minor access without parental consent.
TikTok says it cares about users. The app reminds teens to take breaks. It also blocks under-13s from full access. But parents say loopholes exist. Fake birth dates are easy to enter. Enforcement is weak.
Schools are joining the effort. Teachers report students watching TikTok during class. Districts are banning phones in schools. Mental health counselors see more anxiety cases linked to social media.
The debate continues. Parents urge TikTok to act faster. They want automatic time caps for minors. They also want clearer content filters. Until changes come, families are setting their own rules. Some use app blockers. Others take phones at night.
(Tiktok Teenagers’ Usage Time Attracts Attention, Parents Call For Stronger Supervision)
TikTok’s popularity keeps growing. Over 60% of U.S. teens use it weekly. Experts warn balance is key. They advise open talks between parents and kids. Without action, screen time battles will worsen.