society

Should TikTok Be Banned?

Nadya Sharfina · January 20, 2025 · Leave a Comment

"Despite its global popularity, TikTok faces growing bans over data privacy and security concerns, leaving millions wondering if its future hangs in the balance."

TikTok, which is owned by ByteDance, has become a well-known social media platform. However, its popularity hasn’t kept it from facing rising international issues. Governments worldwide are increasingly taking decisive action against TikTok, citing concerns over data privacy and cybersecurity as key drivers behind their moves.

In 2022, Afghanistan blocked TikTok along with other social media platforms, while India banned the app in June 2020 due to national security and privacy issues. Several countries, including Australia, Belgium, Norway, New Zealand, and the U.K., have banned TikTok on government devices, fearing the app could pose security risks. Most recently, on January 18, 2025, the United States saw TikTok stop working for users, adding to the ongoing debate about its safety and influence. As of 19 January, a mere few hours after the ban, TikTok has once again become accessible to users in the U.S., with an odd declaration on the app: “As a result of President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S.!”

According to Trump, he will be extending the time the app will remain accessible while decisions are made as to its sale and continued use. Why is the U.S. considering banning TikTok, and who initiated this movement? Should TikTok indeed be banned, considering the implications it may have on its millions of users?

What’s Prompting the U.S. to Ban TikTok?

TikTok potentially being banned in the United States is the result of a House bill that was enacted. It is part of an ongoing political debate over the platform. TikTok has been a huge success since its debut in 2017, surpassing Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube in terms of downloads in 2018. However, its quick expansion has alarmed lawmakers, who are concerned about data privacy and censorship due to its Chinese roots.

Despite TikTok’s reassurances that it won’t hand over U.S. user data to the Chinese government, concerns linger. Investigations revealing China-based employees accessing non-public U.S. user data only added to the unease. TikTok claims that U.S. customer data is stored outside of China, mostly in Singapore and the United States, with the assistance of American IT giant Oracle. Many lawmakers, however, have not been happy with these guarantees. This culminated in CEO Shou Zi Chew facing a severe grilling before Congress in March 2023.

Who Initiated the U.S. TikTok Ban?

TikTok has faced numerous bans and attempted bans in many countries in recent years. In 2020, Donald Trump proposed a ban in the U.S., but the courts quickly blocked it, citing First Amendment rights. The following year, the U.S. government restricted the app’s use on official phones, a move that was replicated by at least 34 states by 2023, indicating a broad unwillingness to engage with TikTok inside official circles.

Aside from government prohibitions, TikTok experienced opposition from educational institutions, with over 50 universities in the United States choosing to restrict its usage on campus Wi-Fi and laptops. Meanwhile, India implemented a ban in 2020 following safety concerns. This governmental decision shifted the competitive landscape in India, favouring alternatives such as YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels.

Even within China, where TikTok is based, the app hasn’t taken centre stage. Instead, Douyin, a locally tailored platform with stricter content moderation, dominates the scene. This divergence demonstrates how TikTok’s presence and reception varied across areas, with regulatory settings impacting its trajectory in each location.

Will U.S. TikTok Shut Down Soon?

TikTok has recently faced a significant challenge in the United States. The Supreme Court denied a final legal attempt by its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to fight a new law banning the platform. The court ruled that the law did not violate the First Amendment rights of TikTok or its 170 million users, as the company had argued. As a result, ahead of the ban taking effect on Sunday, the app went offline in the U.S., displaying a message telling users, “You can’t use TikTok for now.”

However, President-elect Donald Trump has suggested that he could offer the platform a lifeline. He publicly stated on social media that he intends to postpone the ban through an executive order. This would give TikTok time to find a U.S.-based partner to purchase a 50% stake in the company, which he believes could address the security concerns driving the ban. Trump has also hinted that he plans to work on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he officially takes office.

Who Could Buy TikTok?

Until recently, ByteDance has been clear that it wasn’t interested in selling the app in the U.S. But with the ongoing legal challenges, there’s now growing interest from potential buyers.

Some big names have already shown interest, including the tech behemoth Perplexity AI, Elon Musk, former U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, and businessman Frank McCourt. Even MrBeast, the world’s biggest YouTuber, who has over 100 million followers on TikTok, has said he might be in the running to buy the app.

With these high-profile figures involved, there’s a lot of curiosity about who will ultimately take over TikTok, and how it might impact its future and safety for users.

What Are TikTok Users Saying?

If TikTok is banned, it could spell trouble for small businesses and social media influencers alike. Small businesses rely on TikTok for marketing and even run their e-commerce operations through TikTok Shop. For influencers who have invested years into building their follower base and securing brand deals, this could seriously impact their livelihoods.

Should Countries Ban TikTok?

TikTok offers more than just entertainment. Alongside fun content, it provides educational, inspiring, and informative material from around the world. For today’s tech-savvy youth, TikTok is a valuable resource for learning in our fast-changing digital landscape.

Deciding whether to ban TikTok, especially for educational use, is complex. On one hand, it offers a variety of educational content, from academic subjects to practical skills. Many educators and learners have utilised TikTok as a supplementary tool for teaching and learning due to its engaging format.

However, issues about data privacy, content filtering, and inappropriate content are all worth considering. While TikTok has educational value, it also has hazards, especially for younger users who are more receptive to incorrect or misleading information.

Instead of an outright prohibition, a more nuanced approach may include setting strong safety controls and standards to limit potential risks. This could include encouraging responsible use, providing tools for digital literacy and online safety, and requiring parental supervision for younger users. Read ‘Navigating Kids Securely Online: Tips and Suggestions’

Why Are Teens Using Sadfishing to Get Attention?

Nadya Sharfina · July 29, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Social media's drive for likes can overshadow authenticity, leading teens to trade genuine moments for attention."

Social media has become an integral part of teenage life, shaping how young people communicate, express themselves, and seek validation. Many teens view social media as a platform where the goal is to gain as many likes and engagements as possible. This drive for online approval often leads them to craft posts that are designed to stand out and attract attention.

However, this quest for engagement can sometimes overshadow the authenticity of their posts. Rather than sharing genuine experiences or feelings, some teens may resort to behaviours like sadfishing.

What Is Sadfishing?

Sadfishing is a term used to describe the act of posting personal pictures or stories on social media to gain attention and sympathy. It’s often seen as a cry for help or a way to seek emotional support from others online. While it can be a genuine expression of someone’s feelings, it often carries a negative connotation due to its perceived insincerity.

Originally, the term “sadfishing” was used to reference the behaviour of celebrities who shared overly emotional or dramatic posts to engage their followers. These posts were seen as a way to maintain public interest and elicit sympathy, often leading to debates about the authenticity of their emotions.

For example, sadfishing on Instagram might involve posting an exaggerated story or image. This could be a picture of someone looking particularly downcast, accompanied by a caption hinting at a vague personal struggle. On Twitter, sadfishing might take the form of an exaggerated tweet. Users might share a melodramatic or sensationalised account of their feelings or experiences, hoping to garner retweets, likes, and sympathetic replies.

While the motivations behind sadfishing can be complex, it’s clear that the behaviour taps into the need for connection and validation in the digital age. Understanding sadfishing can help us navigate our online interactions with more empathy and awareness.

Why Are Teens Sadfishing?

People may sadfish for numerous reasons, ranging from dealing with family or relationship problems to mental health struggles or body image issues. For teens, the motivations behind sadfishing often stem from a need to seek support or sympathy from other people.

When a teen sadfishes, it is likely they are struggling with something and want to let others know. A common cause of sadfishing includes loneliness, where a teen may post emotional content to feel supported by friends. It might be a way to manage challenging emotions like depression or anxiety, especially if they are unsure of healthier coping mechanisms.

Sadfishing can also be a method for teens to receive the attention they crave or fill a need for reassurance. In some cases, it can be tied to narcissism, where they believe they are highly esteemed and liked by everyone. Conversely, low self-esteem or a sense of worthlessness can also lead to sadfishing, as these teens seek validation and support online.

Poor social support is another significant factor. Teens who don’t feel they have someone in the real world with whom they can comfortably share their struggles may turn to social media as an outlet. Sadfishing becomes a way to reach out and connect with others, even if the connection is superficial or fleeting.

How Can Parents Respond to Sadfishing?

Communicate

When it comes to addressing sadfishing, it’s important for parents to talk to and communicate with their children about what they are thinking and feeling. Approaching the conversation with openness and gentleness can encourage teens to open up about their behaviour in a neutral and non-judgmental environment.

Children need parental support to grow and thrive, and being there for them emotionally is important. Some parents may not realise their teens are struggling until they engage in potentially dangerous or inappropriate behaviour. Recognising the signs of sadfishing early on can help parents provide the necessary support before it escalates.

Understand

Understanding that sadfishing is not abnormal teen behaviour is also essential. Many teens turn to social media to express their emotions and seek validation. It’s a common part of navigating adolescence in the digital age. By acknowledging this, parents can avoid making assumptions that might cause their teens to take offence and isolate themselves further.

Instead of jumping to conclusions, parents should strive to understand the underlying issues driving their teen’s behaviour. While posting about personal struggles might not always indicate sadfishing, it is important to recognise that these posts can reflect real emotions and challenges. Open, non-judgmental conversations can help build trust and create a safe space for teens to share their feelings.

In conclusion, teaching teens appropriate social media use is essential for helping them navigate the complexities of online interactions. Social media can be a valuable resource for connection and information, but it also has the potential to be a negative influence if not used thoughtfully. Check out: The Importance of Talking to Your Kids About Social Media.

It’s important to explain to your teen how the internet works, emphasising that every post leaves an online footprint. This means that their online actions can have lasting effects on their reputation and emotional well-being. Encouraging them to think critically about what they share and the potential impact of their posts can foster more mindful and responsible online behaviour.

Tips for How to Talk to Kids About Race and Racism

Nadya Sharfina · June 6, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Despite diverse perspectives, every child deserves to grow up well-informed and safe; starting conversations about racism early builds a foundation of understanding and empathy."

Conversations about racism and discrimination can vary widely from one family to another, reflecting the perspectives each family brings to the table. Despite these differences, the goal is the same: every child deserves to grow up well-informed and safe. Research indicates that the earlier parents start these conversations with their children, the better. Early discussions help children develop a strong foundation of understanding and empathy that will guide their actions and attitudes throughout their lives.

This article offers tips on how to talk to kids about race and racism. We aim to help parents have meaningful, age-appropriate conversations that encourage respect, awareness, and a sense of right and wrong.

Reflect on What You Know

Reflecting on what you know about race and racism is an essential first step before discussing these topics with your children. Begin by acknowledging your own beliefs and understandings related to race, inequalities, class, and identity. Your personal experiences and the level of privilege you hold shape how you interpret current events and, consequently, how you talk to your kids about these sensitive issues. Check out On the Black Lives Matter Movement to read up about race perspectives in other parts of the world.

Your perspective is influenced by your lived experiences. This awareness will help you approach the conversation with humility and openness. Before you start explaining racism to your children, take some time to reflect on what you already know. Educate yourself further on the subject to ensure you’re well-informed. This preparation can help you feel more confident and provide your child with accurate information.

Equally important is acknowledging what you don’t know. It’s perfectly fine if you can’t answer every question your child asks. Admitting that you need to look up certain information demonstrates honesty and a commitment to learning. Some viral news stories on social media may be misleading, or there may be historical or political contexts about race that require deeper understanding.

When faced with a question you can’t answer, tell your child that you’ll research it and suggest that you learn together. This approach not only sets a good example of seeking knowledge but also prevents the spread of misinformation. It’s far better to admit when you don’t have all the answers than to provide incorrect information. This process fosters a collaborative learning environment and teaches your child the value of continuous education on complex issues like race and racism.

Clarify Family’s Values

Clarifying your family’s values will help when discussing race and racism with your children. It’s important to use your words, actions, and overall behaviour to demonstrate what you believe in. Show your children that you stand for equal treatment for all, justice, and respect for every individual regardless of their skin colour, language, religion, or other differences.

Be a good role model in every aspect of your life. As children grow, they start to reflect on the views and behaviours they observe around them. They typically look to family members for guidance, but they also learn from teachers, friends, coaches, and the media they consume. Your influence, combined with these other sources, shapes their understanding of the world.

It’s essential to be mindful of the subtle and not-so-subtle messages you send. Stereotyping, jokes at the expense of others, and remarks of displeasure or disdain can negatively shape children’s views on race and other differences. Equally important is the absence of positive expressions or images; children notice when inclusivity and respect are missing.

Therefore, model thoughtful, inclusive behaviour consistently. Show through your actions and words that everyone deserves respect and fair treatment. By doing so, you help instil values of justice and equality in your children, setting a strong foundation for their understanding and actions as they grow.

Be Age-Appropriate

Being age-appropriate is important when discussing race and racism with children. As children grow, their understanding of the world evolves, and it’s important to tailor your conversations to their developmental stage to ensure they grasp the concepts effectively.

Preschoolers:

These kids are just beginning to learn about right and wrong, discussions about fairness and justice are key. At this age, kids are naturally curious about differences, including skin colour. If your child asks about someone’s skin colour, use it as an opportunity to acknowledge that people do look different and celebrate that uniqueness. You could say, “We are all human, and we are unique just the way we are.”

This simple yet profound statement helps them understand that while we may look different, we share a common humanity. Always be open to your children’s questions. When kids feel that they can ask anything, it prevents the topic from becoming taboo. Avoid shutting down their inquiries, as this might make them think that race and racism are off-limits subjects. Instead, encourage their curiosity and provide answers that are honest yet appropriate for their age.

School-age kids:

When discussing race and racism with school-aged children, it’s essential to use practical examples from everyday life. These examples help them understand complex issues in a relatable way. By doing this, they can better grasp how it might feel to be discriminated against, left out, or treated unfairly simply because of their race.

Encourage your child to share what they’re hearing at school, on television, and through social media. Asking them about these sources can open up a dialogue where they feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and questions. For instance, you might ask, “What have you heard about why certain people are prejudiced against certain races?” or “How would you feel if someone didn’t want to be friends with you just because of your race?”

Talking openly about these questions can lead to deeper understanding and empathy. By connecting these discussions to real-life examples of groups who have been discriminated against, you can provide context and make the conversation more impactful.

Preteens and teens:

Older kids are better prepared to tackle tougher topics. They have a more developed sense of right and wrong and can understand the complexities of these issues more deeply.

One effective approach is to brainstorm ways they can help address racial issues. Encouraging them to think of proactive steps they can take not only helps them engage with the topic but also empowers them to make a difference. For example, you might suggest they speak up for a friend who is being bullied because of their race. This not only supports their friend but also sets an example of standing against discrimination.

By approaching these conversations in an age-appropriate manner, you can help your older children develop a nuanced understanding of race and racism. This prepares them to be thoughtful, active participants in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Celebrate Diversity

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Celebrating diversity is a vital part of talking to kids about race and racism. It’s important to have these conversations because they help children understand, respect, and appreciate the differences between people. When kids learn about and celebrate diversity, they build empathy and compassion for others, which can inspire them to take positive actions against injustice.

Teaching children about different racial and social groups through positive interactions can significantly decrease prejudice. When kids are exposed to the richness of various cultures, they begin to see the world from different perspectives. This exposure can be achieved in simple, enjoyable ways. For instance, you can explore foods from different cultures together, read stories that highlight diverse characters and experiences, and watch films that represent a variety of backgrounds.

Shared experiences like these not only broaden your child’s understanding but also build trust and openness. By engaging with diverse cultures, your child learns to value different viewpoints and experiences. This openness fosters a more inclusive mindset, making them more accepting and appreciative of people from all walks of life. Celebrating diversity in these ways helps create a foundation of respect and empathy that will guide your child throughout their life.

Should TikTok Be Banned?

Nadya Sharfina · March 22, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"As TikTok's popularity soars, governments worldwide grapple with privacy concerns, prompting bans and legislative actions."

At the time of writing, TikTok is completely banned in Afghanistan, India, Nepal, and Somalia. Some other countries such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway and the U.K. have banned TikTok on governmental devices.

The most recent blow to TikTok in the United States occurred on March 13, when the House of Representatives voted to forward a measure. If passed, this bill could lead to TikTok being banned in a country with one of the largest numbers of both users and creators. Why is the U.S. considering banning TikTok, and who initiated this movement? Should TikTok indeed be banned, considering the implications it may have on its millions of users?

What’s Prompting the U.S. to Ban TikTok?

The current news about TikTok potentially being banned in the United States is the result of a House bill that was recently enacted. It is part of an ongoing political debate over the platform. TikTok has been a huge success since its debut in 2017, surpassing Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube in terms of downloads in 2018. However, its quick expansion has alarmed lawmakers, who are concerned about data privacy and censorship due to its Chinese roots.

Who Initiated the U.S. TikTok Ban?

Will U.S. TikTok Shut Down Soon?

TikTok’s immediate fate has not yet been determined. The Senate must approve the proposal before it becomes law. Although the President of the United States, Joe Biden, has expressed his intention to sign it, it must first pass through the Senate. The timing of this vote remains unknown.

What Are TikTok Users Saying?

Many influencers are crossing their fingers, hoping that lawmakers will give the matter a second thought. They argue that TikTok serves as a vital space for bringing people together and discussing important social justice issues. It’s not just about funny dances and light-hearted content; TikTok also hosts meaningful discussions and educational content. The platform has become a powerful tool for amplifying diverse voices and raising awareness on critical issues. Its unique format allows complex topics to be shared in a digestible and engaging way, reaching millions worldwide.

If the House bill makes it into law, it could spell trouble for small businesses and social media influencers alike. Small businesses rely on TikTok for marketing and even run their e-commerce operations through TikTok Shop. For influencers. who have invested years into building their follower base and securing brand deals, this could seriously impact their livelihoods.

Should Countries Ban TikTok?

On the Black Lives Matter Movement

Rebecca Samuel · April 10, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"The mission behind Black Lives Matter is straightforward: To abolish discrimination, oppression and systemic racism."

#BlackLivesMatter saw its first tweet in 2013. The beginning of the movement has been credited to three Black American women, Alicia Garza, Opal Tometi and Patrisse Cullors, who started the movement after the death of Trayvon Martin, a Black teenager who was shot while walking to his friend’s house and the acquittal of the man who shot him. Since then, millions of people all over the world have contributed to the cause in a myriad of ways, from signing petitions to hashtags of #BlackLivesMatter on social media to protesting on the streets, all for equality and justice for Black people.

The mission behind Black Lives Matter is straightforward: To abolish discrimination, oppression and systemic racism. The path to getting these is less so. The protests held in the U.S. last year after the murder of George Floyd by a police officer spread to 60 countries across all 7 continents. It has been the largest Black-led protest since the 1960s.

What can movements like #blm do to increase equality for Black people? It creates space for Black empowerment, affirms Black humanity and builds social, economic and political power for all Black people. It is an acknowledgement that Black people are disproportionately affected by systems of inequality and oppression. It works towards building impartial and unbiased systems in society.

Some specific aims of Black Lives Matter are:

Fighting state-sanctioned discrimination against Black communities
Organizing local efforts that contribute to Black empowerment
Changing discriminatory systems in criminal justice systems
Abolishing police violence and brutality

Black Lives Matter is a significant movement in the world today. It was one of the first movements to utilize social media to mobilize people all over the world. The hashtag #BlackLivesMatter became both platform and organization tool to contribute to all the action that took place offline. Since it began, the movement has influenced legislation, toppled corrupt politicians, improved housing, healthcare and education, and demanded justice for victims of police violence and discriminatory legal systems.

People all over the world and in Singapore have become a lot more sensitive to and aware of racial issues and systemic discrimination that seep into the most egalitarian societies. We all look forward to a world where racism no longer exists and men and women can live in true harmony with one another.