Time ticks down for TikTok
What the ban on TikTok means for neurodivergent people
It’s 2017, Donald Trump has been inaugurated as the 45th president. Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria wreaked havoc on the people in the Caribbean and the U.S.. #MeToo was gaining momentum and exposing the issues of sexual assault and harassment across all industries. And a company named ByteDance unleashed TikTok onto the world. A place where people can share little bite-sized moments of their lives vulnerably and creatively. It wasn’t until a merger with Musical.ly that we would witness TikTok’s meteoric rise and the reshaping of social media as we know it. But beyond viral dance crazes and a Chick-fil-A worker’s shenanigans lies a vibrant haven for diverse voices, including those of neurodivergent individuals.
A bustling community where neurodivergent folks find not just camaraderie, but lifelines of support. TikTok evolved to more than just fleeting trends; it’s become a platform for those seeking connection, advice, and empathy amidst the vastness of the internet. Yet, with whispers of bans and ownership scrutiny swirling, the 148 million Americans who use TikTok for entertainment, support, to be informed, and to earn income face uncertain times.
Now I must preface that I am not advocating TikTok is good for your mental health. There have been countless studies supporting the adverse effects of prolonged usage of social media. However, people do use social media as a source of information and bonding in this day and age. So, with that said, let us explore some adverse effects of the loss of the social media giant, TikTok.
Fears of Fractured Communities and Support Networks
Within TikTok’s digital landscape, neurodivergent individuals have woven tight-knit bonds, offering solace and understanding in a world that often feels isolating. These connections aren’t just virtual; they’re pillars of strength, offering guidance and solidarity that can be hard to find offline.
The Disruptive Ripples in Learning and Sharing
TikTok isn’t just a scroll-through distraction; it’s a hub of knowledge dissemination. Many neurodivergent individuals have stumbled upon invaluable insights about their own minds within its short, punchy videos. While self-diagnosis isn’t the aim, TikTok fosters a sense of self-awareness that can spark further exploration and understanding.
Amplifying Advocacy and Awareness
In the fight for neurodiversity acceptance, TikTok has been a formidable ally. Creators have been able to boldly challenge misconceptions, debunk myths, and champion inclusivity, all within the span of a 30-second video. Losing this platform means losing a crucial battleground for advocacy and education.
The Financial Ripple Effect on Neurodivergent Creators
For neurodivergent creators, TikTok isn’t just a canvas for self-expression; it’s a livelihood. Collaborations, creator funds, and business ventures bloom within its ecosystem. A ban threatens not just social connections, but economic stability too.
Exploring New Horizons
In the face of adversity, resilience shines brightest. Should TikTok fade into memory like our beloved Vine and MySpace, alternatives like YouTube and Instagram stand ready to pick up the pieces. But adapting won’t be easy; each platform brings its own quirks and challenges and algorithms to maneuver.
The potential TikTok ban isn’t just a policy decision (nor is it just a ban on TikTok, but more on that later); it’s a seismic event with far-reaching consequences for the neurodivergent community as well as many other advocacy groups and movements. As debates rage on, let’s not forget the voices most affected by these changes. And for those braving uncertain waters, remember: resilience knows no bounds.
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