TikTok Blocks #SkinnyTok Amid Concerns Over Eating Disorders

TikTok has recently announced that it will no longer display search results for the hashtag #SkinnyTok. This decision comes in response to criticism that some videos associated with this hashtag promote disordered eating and other unhealthy dietary behaviors. The platform has been contacted for further comments regarding this development.

Political Response to #SkinnyTok

France’s Minister of State for Digital Affairs, Clara Chappaz, has been a prominent figure in the campaign against the pushback”>#SkinnyTok hashtag. Chappaz has been advocating for action against this hashtag with both French and EU regulators since April”>[insert date]. In her statements, she expressed strong disapproval of the content associated with #SkinnyTok, stating, “These videos promoting extreme thinness are revolting and absolutely unacceptable. Digital tools are marvelous in terms of progress and freedom, but when misused, they can shatter lives. The social networks cannot escape their responsibility.”

Challenges of Content Moderation

While the decision to block search results for potentially harmful hashtags is seen as a positive step, experts warn that it may only create obstacles for users seeking similar content. Brooke Erin Duffy, a professor at Cornell University, noted in an interview with The New York Times, “Users are savvy. They know how to work these platforms and how to evade their content moderation systems.” This highlights the ongoing challenge of effectively managing harmful content on social media platforms.

TikTok’s Ongoing Efforts

The block on the #SkinnyTok hashtag is part of TikTok’s broader, piecemeal approach to addressing content that could encourage eating disorders. In 2020, the platform implemented measures to restrict content that might “promote a negative or harmful body image,” including banning certain fasting apps and weight loss supplements. Furthermore, TikTok initiated a partnership with the National Eating Disorder Association in 2021 to provide additional resources for users struggling with eating disorders. Later that year, the platform also introduced a new feature on the For You page aimed at reducing the impact of repeated exposure to negative content.

Conclusion

The decision to block search results for #SkinnyTok reflects a growing awareness of the potential dangers associated with certain social media content. As platforms like TikTok continue to navigate the complexities of content moderation, the balance between user freedom and responsibility remains a critical issue. The ongoing dialogue among regulators, experts, and social media companies will be essential in shaping future policies aimed at protecting users from harmful content.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at this link.