#TraumaTok—TikTok Videos Relating to Trauma: Content Analysis
The study highlights the potential risks of vicarious trauma due to trauma dumping without trigger warnings on TikTok, and the need for further research to assess the accuracy of advice and information in these videos. However, it also underscores the platform's potential to foster social connections, provide validation, and reduce stigma around mental health issues. Public health professionals should leverage social media to disseminate accurate mental health information, while promoting user education and content moderation to mitigate potential harms. People often use social media, such as TikTok to share advice, stories, and support around mental health, including their experiences with trauma. Out of 250 videos, most were either giving advice (54/250, 21.6%) or sharing personal experiences (168/250, 67.3%). The study found many videos lacked warnings about upsetting content, which could potentially harm young viewers or people suffering from trauma. While TikTok can help people feel connected and reduce the stigma around mental health, it is important to seek support from professionals when needed.
Authors
- Gabriella Wells (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5189-4329)
- Emily Munro (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7677-0878)
- Nicole Wickens (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7202-7187)
- Karen Lombardi (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8016-2197)
- Alix Woolard (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3427-351X)
- Daniel Ta (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9875-0704)
- Rigel Paciente (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2947-988X)
- Joelie Mandzufas (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4236-1384)
Institutions
- Edith Cowan University (AU)
- The University of Western Australia (AU)
Publication Details
- Journal
- JMIR Formative Research
- Published
- 2024-09-03
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.2196/49761
- Citations
- 6
- Primary Topic
- Mental Health via Writing
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 3.86