Nowadays, TikTok has become a favorite platform for people of all ages. Right? This also includes children and teens. But do you know that its popularity is also raising some concerns? Yes. Such concerns are dangerous for a child’s emotional and psychological health. The risks are mainly about sex-related content on TikTok. Many kids can’t recognize this content because it is hidden by using emojis or trendy dances.
As a result, young users are exposed to inappropriate content. As a parent, you may be worried about this matter. In such cases, all you need to do is stay informed and involved in addressing these concerns. Are you curious to know about sex TikTok and how to save your children from it? Keep reading!
Understanding sex-related content on TikTok
What counts as sexual content on TikTok?
Explicit language
One of the main things that counts as sexual content on TikTok is explicit language. You can identify this language by noticing sexual acts or body parts. Sometimes, you see the creators are using slang or trying to present it humorously.
Sexual imagery
The next thing that is included in sexual content on TikTok is sexual imagery. It includes videos that show suggestive dancing or zoomed-in shots of intimate areas. This imagery mainly focuses on private body parts. Even if these parts are covered partially, they are still sexual imagery.
Sexual innuendo
The next thing that is included in sexual content on TikTok is sexual imagery. It includes videos that show suggestive dancing or zoomed-in shots of intimate areas. This imagery mainly focuses on private body parts. Even if these parts are covered partially, they are still sexual imagery.
Types of content found under “Sex TikTok” and “TikTok Sex”
Multiple types of content are found under the keywords “Sex TikTok” and “TikTok Sex.” It includes:
- Flirtatious lip-syncing
- Provocative dance trends
- Humor laced with sexual references
How many algorithms expose kids to inappropriate content?
Engagement-based recommendations
Kids can be exposed to inappropriate content with engagement-based recommendations. What happens is TikTok’s algorithm promotes videos based on what users like and comment on. And when a child interacts with slightly suggestive content, the algorithm starts pushing similar content onto their feed.
It may happen even if the kid unintentionally likes the content. With the passing of time, this creates a loop where inappropriate videos become more common.
Vague or misleading hashtags
TikTok’s algorithm may push a child towards inappropriate content with vague or misleading hashtags. On TikTok, many creators use coded hashtags and emojis to post sexual content. This content may appear innocent at first glance. Due to this, the hidden meanings can bypass detection.
After that, the algorithm can treat it like any other trending video and show it to a broad audience. And this audience also includes kids.
Lack of age verification
One of the main reasons for kids’ exposure to inappropriate content on sex TikTok is a lack of age verification. The sign-up process of TikTok allows users to enter any birthdate. This makes it easy for kids to show they are older.
And once they get registered as adults, they can view mature content. Hence, this lack of strict age verification makes sexual or violent content more accessible to children.
Browse TikTok safely with FlashGet Kids
Is TikTok safe for teens?
Minimum age requirements of TikTok
The minimum age requirement for using TikTok is at least 13 years old. Before the age of 13, you cannot register for a TikTok account. However, you have to be at least 16 years old to use certain features. It includes direct messaging. Additionally, to access live streaming or send virtual gifts, you must be at least 18 years old.
Is TikTok suitable for teens?
The answer to this depends on how teens are using TikTok. It can be suitable for them with proper supervision and safety settings in place. The good part is that TikTok also offers a variety of creative and educational content. So, if teens use this app with caution, it can be suitable for them.
Potential risks of using TikTok
Exposure to inappropriate content
The primary risk of using TikTok is the exposure to inappropriate content.
Cyberbullying and negative comments
While using TikTok, teens might face negative comments about their appearance and personality.
Pressure to conform to trends
Teens may feel pressure to go viral. This pushes them to participate in provocative and unsafe trends.
What parents should know about sex content on TikTok?
The risk of sex content for kids
Psychological risks
Parents should know that content from sex TikTok can create psychological risks for their kids. How? When they get early exposure to sex content, it shapes their perceptions of intimacy in unreal ways. Viewing this content continuously may lead kids to believe that all relationships require physical attention. These perceptions can affect how they make connections and understand consent.
Additionally, they may feel compelled to copy what they see in order to gain attention. This creates confusion and anxiety among them. Therefore, this is how sex content on TikTok creates psychological risks for children.
Emotional risks
The risks of sexual content on TikTok are not just limited to psychological ones. It also has emotional concerns. Sexual content may create insecurities in kids’ minds about their own bodies and relationships. When they have constant exposure to idealized or edited bodies, they may get involved in unhealthy comparisons. It also leads to low self-esteem or body dissatisfaction.
Additionally, the emotional expectations of kids may start developing from exaggerated online interactions. The development of emotions can impact their real-life relationships.
How prevalent is sex content on TikTok?
Even if the sexual content is against the rules, it is still famous on TikTok. For example, you can easily see popular hashtags like #seggs or #spicy. These hashtags are usually used to share suggestive videos.
Also, some creators use “soft-core” trends. It includes lip-syncing to explicit lyrics or performing provocative dances. A report from Wired gives more clarity on widespread content on TikTok. It is reported that many adult content subreddits source up to 40% of their videos from TikTok.
How can the presence of such content be changed?
The presence of sexual content on TikTok can be adjusted by controlling what you interact with. It includes likes, views, and all influence recommendations. You need to avoid or report the content that you don’t want.
By doing so, it may appear much less on your feed. Additionally, regional trends also play a significant role. If the area has strict regulations or cultural sensitivities, the users see more moderated content.
What can parents do to protect teens from sex content on TikTok?
When you want to protect your kid from sex content, the best thing you can do is talk with them openly. This creates a bond between you and your kid. But do you know the right way to have a conversation with your children? Let’s know!
How to talk about sex and relationships?
Start early and stay age-appropriate
To have a good conversation with your child, you need to start early and stay age-appropriate. What actually happens is that sometimes the level of maturity doesn’t match between parents and children. You need to adjust your talks to match the kids’ maturity level.
By doing so, teens can begin talking and become more comfortable. Your main focus should be on explaining that they may encounter content that doesn’t depict real-life relationships.
Keep the conversation ongoing
The best way to talk about sex and relationships with your children is to keep the conversation ongoing. Some parents only have this conversation once or twice a month. However, you need to make discussions about sex on TikTok and online behavior a regular part of family life.
It should not be a one-time talk. You can discuss it during car rides, mealtimes, or when a related topic comes up in the media. For optimal results, try this approach. Are you finding how to initiate? You can start by simply asking, “What’s trending on TikTok lately?”
Set expectations and digital boundaries
You need to clearly communicate with your kid about what’s acceptable and unacceptable online. It means you need to teach them about respect, consent, and privacy. You can then discuss how these values apply to social media platforms, such as TikTok.
However, here, you need to ensure that your teen knows they can always ask questions without fear of punishment. Make them feel comfortable. This can be possible only if you give them the space to share their thoughts freely.
How to block inappropriate content?
So, you want to block sexual content on TikTok. Hope these steps are helping you!
1. Block specific accounts
If an account frequently posts sexual or suggestive content, you can block it to prevent further exposure. Go to the user’s profile. Then tap the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner. And select “Block.”
2. Filter Hashtags and Keywords
TikTok allows you to filter out certain hashtags or keywords from your feed. Go to Settings and Privacy > Content Preferences > Filter Video Keywords. Add words like “seggs” or “spicy” that are often used to disguise explicit content.
3. Use restricted mode
To limit mature content, enable Restricted Mode. You need to visit Settings and Privacy > Content Preferences > Restricted Mode. Then activate it with a passcode. This can prevent it from being easily turned off.
4. Customize “Not Interested” Feedback
When a questionable video appears, just press and hold the video. Then select “Not Interested.” You can also tap “More” to hide similar content or mute specific creators.
How to report inappropriate content?
Do you want to report sexual content on TikTok? You need to tap the Share arrow on the video. Then select the report. After that, choose the reason. It can be “Nudity and Sexual Activity” or “Minor Safety.” And then follow the prompts. After some time, TikTok will review the report and remove the video if it breaks community rules.
Guidance on how to encourage teens to report content
While encouraging your teen to report sexual content, you need to tell them some basic things. You need to tell them that if they feel uncomfortable viewing any video, it’s okay to report it and refuse to see it again. Explain to your kid that reporting is a way to protect themselves and others. Also, let them know it’s okay to trust their instincts and that you’re there to support them.
Use safe mode/kid mode
TikTok offers several safety settings to protect younger users. There is an option named family pairing. It lets parents link their account to their teens. This allows control over screen time and direct messages. It also gives control over content visibility.
Also, safe mode blocks most mature content that comes from sex TikToks. It helps parents create a safer and more age-appropriate TikTok experience for their children.
Use parental control tools to manage a child’s digital life better
To manage a child’s digital life effectively, the best solution is to use a parental control tool. FlashGet Kids is one of the third-party parental control apps. It allows parents to monitor screen time and block explicit websites.
Parents can also track app usage and receive alerts about suspicious activity. With features like remote device control and content filtering, this tool stands out as an all-in-one safety solution.
Importance of setting up device-level controls for apps like TikTok
Setting up device-level controls on TikTok is important as it adds an extra layer of safety. These controls allow parents to restrict downloads and limit screen time. Also, such controls are essential because they can block explicit content across all apps. It helps parents create a safer digital environment for their children. Additionally, by having such control, parents can reduce the likelihood of children being influenced by adult online content.
Final words
When you acquire all the knowledge of how TikTok works and how to use safe tools, you can protect your children from sexual content. All you need to do is have an open conversation and provide consistent guidance to your kids.
By doing so, TikTok can be a creative and safe place for your children. You don’t need to be scared of sex TikTok or compromise their emotional and psychological well–being. So, a message to all the parents is, stay involved, stay informed.
