Extreme weight loss, cosmetic surgery videos available to teens on TikTok despite guidelines, CBS News finds

A recent investigation conducted by CBS News has uncovered a concerning trend on the popular social media platform TikTok. The investigation revealed that hundreds of extreme weight loss and cosmetic surgery videos were easily accessible to users under the age of 18, in clear violation of TikTok’s own policies.

To conduct the investigation, CBS News created a TikTok account for a hypothetical 15-year-old female user in the United States. The account was then used to search for and interact with videos related to extreme weight loss and cosmetic surgery. Shockingly, the account was inundated with content promoting harmful weight management behaviors, including restrictive diets and dangerous weight loss practices.

Videos found on the platform included captions such as “nothing feels better than an empty stomach” and “what I eat in a day” showcasing 500-calorie-per-day diets. These videos promoted thin body types as aspirational targets, often using hashtags like “harsh motivation” to push extreme weight loss advice. Some even featured messages like “skinny is a status symbol” and “every time you say no to food, you say yes to skinny.”

TikTok’s community guidelines explicitly state that users under the age of 18 should not be exposed to content promoting restrictive diets, weight loss medications, or cosmetic surgery without appropriate warnings. However, CBS News found that a simple search using terms like “skinny” and “low cal” yielded a plethora of videos violating these guidelines.

In response to CBS News’ findings, a TikTok spokesperson emphasized that the platform does not condone content promoting disordered eating or extreme weight loss behaviors. They cited a study by the University of Southern California that found a majority of eating disorder content on TikTok revolves around discussions of recovery.

Despite this, concerns remain about the platform’s role in perpetuating harmful body image perceptions and eating disorders. Organizations like the Molly Russell Foundation have called on TikTok to address these issues and take more proactive measures to protect young users from harmful content.

Overall, CBS News’ investigation sheds light on the troubling prevalence of extreme weight loss and cosmetic surgery content on TikTok, particularly for underage users. It highlights the need for social media platforms to enforce their policies more effectively and prioritize the well-being of their younger audience members. The “For You” feed on TikTok is a place where users can discover new videos tailored to their interests. However, recent findings have shown that the platform is promoting cosmetic surgeries such as rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and liposuction to users, including underage individuals. Videos showcasing waist reduction surgery with captions like “I would rather die hot than live ugly” have also surfaced, raising concerns about the impact of such content on body image and self-esteem.

In response to criticism, TikTok has taken steps to address extreme weight loss content on the platform. For example, the viral hashtag #SkinnyTok was suspended in June after facing backlash for promoting unhealthy weight loss practices. Additionally, searches for terms like #Anorexia now lead users to resources for eating disorder support, showing a commitment to providing assistance to those in need.

However, the issue of harmful content on social media platforms is not unique to TikTok. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has faced scrutiny for allowing content that promotes extreme weight loss and eating disorders. Similarly, YouTube has come under fire for recommending such content to young audiences.

It is essential for social media platforms to work with mental health experts and organizations like the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) to refine their content recommendations and provide resources for those struggling with body image issues and eating disorders. NEDA offers a confidential screening tool and support for individuals experiencing concerns about body image or eating behaviors, while F.E.A.S.T. provides assistance to caregivers of loved ones suffering from eating disorders.

As the landscape of social media continues to evolve, it is crucial for platforms to prioritize the well-being of their users and take proactive measures to ensure a safe and supportive online environment. By working together with experts and organizations, social media platforms can help combat harmful content and promote positive messages surrounding body image and self-acceptance.