A new study from the University of Trinidad and Tobago has identified key signs of TikTok addiction, with lonely women being the most likely to develop problematic use. The research, which analysed 173 TikTok users, found that 6.4 per cent were at risk of addiction to the app.
The study assessed six criteria for addiction: obsessive thoughts, strong urges, using the app to forget personal problems, unsuccessful attempts to cut down, restlessness when deprived, and negative impact on school or work. The most definitive sign was becoming nervous, irritable, anxious or sad when unable to access the app.
Female users and those scoring higher on loneliness and extraversion were more likely to be at risk. In contrast, Facebook addiction was more linked to low self-esteem. Lead researcher Troy Smith noted that while similarities exist between the platforms, the predictors and manifestations of problematic use differ.
The findings highlight the need for further research into TikTok addiction, as the platform's rapid growth raises concerns about overuse. Smith emphasised that a validated scale for problematic TikTok use will help standardise future studies.
