As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s time to reflect on the highs and lows of TikTok trends that have captivated us throughout the year. While TikTok continues to be a platform for creativity and entertainment, not all trends are created equal. Let’s take a deep dive into the worst TikTok trends of 2023, examining their implications, controversies, and the lessons we can learn. From questionable relationship dynamics to AI biases, we’ll explore the dark side of TikTok that left us cringing and questioning.
1. Weaponized Incompetence: The Wives of Blue Collar Workers
In September, TikTok witnessed an unexpected trend that shed light on the dynamics of marriages involving blue-collar workers. Wives took to the platform to reveal startling details about their relationships, such as cutting their husbands’ toenails, being peed on in the shower, and dealing with husbands blowing mucus out of their noses without using a tissue. While seemingly harmless, this trend highlighted the concept of weaponized incompetence – deliberately feigning inability to avoid responsibilities. We delve into the implications and underlying messages of this controversial trend.
2. Ethical Concerns: Filming People with Dementia
In August, TikTok found itself embroiled in a sticky situation when users began frequently posting videos of their loved ones with dementia. Though these videos were intended to be endearing and shed light on the care given to elderly individuals with degenerative diseases, ethical questions arose. Many commenters and TikTokers wondered if filming individuals who lack full cognitive function is fair or ethical. We examine the ethical concerns surrounding this trend and the potential impact on vulnerable individuals.
3. Harmful Debates: The Rise of “Debate Me” Livestreams
One of the jarring trends that surfaced on TikTok in 2023 was the proliferation of “Debate Me” livestreams. These livestreams featured individuals inviting viewers to engage in debates on controversial topics such as transgender rights. While promoting dialogue is important, the downside of these livestreams is the platform they provide for individuals with transphobic and homophobic views to spread their harmful ideologies. We explore the impact of these livestreams and the importance of creating safe spaces for discussion.
4. Divine Feminine TikTokers: Empowerment or Misogyny?
The concept of the “divine feminine” as a spiritual force has been around for ages, but it experienced a resurgence on TikTok in 2023. While some TikTokers focused on healing inner trauma, others propagated the idea that women should prioritize supporting men in leadership roles. This resurgence raised concerns as it echoed separate spheres ideology and perpetuated misogyny. We analyze the varying perspectives on divine feminine TikToks and the implications of such content.
5. Homophobia Disguised as Jokes: Straight Girls Insulting Their Exes
In a trend that displayed unnecessary homophobia, some heterosexual women on TikTok resorted to insulting their ex-boyfriends by referring to them as lesbians. This demeaning joke not only targeted the lesbian community but also undermined the validity of same-sex relationships. We delve into the offensive nature of these jokes and question their origins and motivations.
6. The Return of Chain Messages: Manifestation TikTok Audios
Remember the haunted chain emails that promised dire consequences if not forwarded? In 2023, a similar trend emerged on TikTok, but with a twist. Manifestation TikTok audios claimed that using specific sounds in videos would bring about financial gains or even romantic success. We discuss the damaging effects of these trends on impressionable minds and debunk the notion of magical outcomes.
7. Insensitivity and Appropriation: Death Row Meals
In January, TikTokers began sharing their “death row meals,” describing their last meal choices as if they were facing execution. However, this trend drew criticism as most participants were not facing such a fate. The insensitivity of appropriating the experience of death row inmates, coupled with the racial disparities in capital punishment, sparked outrage within the TikTok community. We examine the reasons behind the backlash and the importance of considering the implications of trending content.
8. Unhealthy Eating Habits: The Girl Dinner Trend
While many people enjoyed the “girl dinner” trend in 2023, it raised concerns about disordered eating habits. Girl dinner involved assembling a charcuterie board of random items as a meal, often lacking the nutritional value required to fuel and nourish the body adequately. We emphasize the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and question the reliability of nutritional advice found on TikTok.
9. Discriminatory AI Filters: Unveiling Biases
Artificial intelligence (AI) filters on TikTok can often reflect biases, particularly when it comes to marginalized communities. In November, an AI-based filter gained popularity, but it was criticized for whitewashing people of color and promoting body-shaming. We explore the bias present in AI filters and the need for more inclusive technology.
10. Illusion of Talent: TikTok Singers and Autotune
TikTok is known for its talented singers, but what if we told you that some of them were secretly using autotune to enhance their voices? In a revealing TikTok video, singer Glenn Devron exposed the practice of uploading pre-recorded singing videos to tuning software, making them sound flawless. We discuss the implications of this trend and the importance of appreciating authenticity on the platform.
