Concerns rise over self-harm content on TikTok after Danish organization reports 700 videos

Concerns are rising over the presence of self-harm content on TikTok, especially after a Danish organization reported 700 videos related to self-harm to the platform in October. According to the organization, only 20 of these videos were completely removed, while 400 were marked as “visible to self,” meaning only the uploader could view them.

Experts warn that such content poses significant risks to young individuals. Kathrine Elmose Jørgensen, a digital media specialist from the Danish organization, expressed frustration at TikTok’s insufficient actions despite clear indications of harmful content. TikTok, however, maintains that it removes over 99% of such material before it is reported.

Despite TikTok’s claim to be proactive, researchers highlight the accessibility of concerning videos on the platform, with one report revealing instructional videos that teach methods of self-harm along with guides encouraging self-harming behavior. The content often comes with enticing visuals and music that could make such acts seem appealing to impressionable youth.

Psychologists also share a grim perspective, noting that many patients have been inadvertently exposed to self-harm ideas through TikTok without actively searching for such content. They highlight a disturbing trend where users compete to see who can inflict deeper cuts, further promoting harmful behaviors.

Even after a recent outreach, only some of the reported videos have been removed, leaving many still accessible. Critics argue that merely limiting the visibility of these videos does not address the underlying issue, as they can be re-uploaded easily, remaining a potential source of distress for vulnerable users.