The popular social media platform TikTok has resumed operations in the United States, much to the delight of its users. However, this development has sparked significant concern among experts about its impact on the mental well-being of young people. According to Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist at New York University and author of "The Anxious Generation," the return of TikTok could exacerbate issues such as anxiety, depression, and compulsive behavior among children and adolescents. The temporary unavailability of TikTok over the weekend was due to a new law passed by Congress, which would have banned the app unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sold its stake. President Trump’s executive order delayed this ban for 75 days, allowing users to reconnect.

Haidt, along with co-author Zach Rausch, argues that TikTok's influence is particularly detrimental because it encourages addictive behavior and exposes young users to inappropriate content. Research indicates that the platform is more engaging than its competitors, making it especially problematic. A study from Baylor University found TikTok to be more addictive than other social media platforms, while Pew Research Center data revealed that 63% of American teens between 13 and 17 use TikTok, with 16% being nearly constant users. The internal documents of TikTok, disclosed through a lawsuit, highlight how easily young individuals can become ensnared by the platform, leading to adverse psychological effects.

Experts like Haidt and Rausch advocate for broader restrictions on social media use for minors. They suggest that without stringent age verification policies, banning TikTok alone won’t prevent young people from accessing similar platforms like Instagram or Snapchat. These platforms also pose psychological risks, as highlighted by a warning from the U.S. Surgeon General regarding increased rates of anxiety and depression among teens who frequently use social media and smartphones. Rausch emphasizes the importance of real-life interactions for social development, noting that excessive screen time reduces opportunities for face-to-face engagement.

While comprehensive bans on social media for younger users might not be feasible in the near future, Haidt and Rausch propose alternative strategies. Encouraging activities that do not involve smartphones can help reduce dependency on social media. Creating environments where it is normal to take breaks from online platforms can open up new avenues for personal growth and interaction. By fostering these norms, parents and educators can guide young people toward healthier digital habits, promoting a balanced approach to technology use.