According to NPR, unredacted documents from a lawsuit filed by the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office revealed that TikTok’s executives and employees were aware of how the app’s features encouraged compulsive use and the negative mental health effects it could have. Several states recently sued TikTok, accusing it of targeting children for addiction. Internal documents showed that TikTok’s own research linked compulsive app usage to negative impacts on mental health, sleep, work, school, and relationships. Despite implementing a time-management tool, teens still exceeded the allotted time on the app, showing minimal impact. The company was also found to be aware of filter bubbles and harmful content, struggling with moderation practices that allowed inappropriate content to circulate. TikTok defended itself, claiming the lawsuit misrepresented their commitment to safety and highlighting safety features they have implemented.
