TikTok Unveils Badges for Responsible Social Media Habits

TikTok is rolling out new digital well-being features aimed at improving the mental health of its users. The social network said it will also give users badges for controlling their TikTok usage. The company is redesigning its screen time management page and adding new features to it. These include an affirmation journal with more than 120 positive prompts that let users set their intent for the day, a sound generator that can play calming sounds like rain or ocean waves, and a breathing exercise module. According to a statement from TikTok, the new features are designed to promote healthy digital habits among users, particularly teenagers. The company said it reviewed academic literature on digital well-being and found that overly restrictive tools can have a negative effect on teens. To address this, TikTok is introducing badges that reward users for completing different missions, such as avoiding the platform at night or using the new meditation tools. Users can earn badges by completing various tasks, including the sleep hours mission, which requires them to avoid using TikTok at night, and the meditation tools mission, which encourages users to practice breathing exercises. The badges are designed to motivate users to develop healthy digital habits and provide a sense of accomplishment when they achieve their goals. The redesign of TikTok's screen time management page is part of the company's efforts to promote digital well-being. The new page will feature content from creators who talk about limiting screen time, using parental tools, and customizing their feeds. This content is intended to provide users with helpful tips and resources for managing their digital habits. Industry experts have welcomed TikTok's efforts to promote digital well-being. "It's great to see a major social media platform taking steps to address the mental health concerns of its users," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a digital well-being expert. "By providing users with tools and resources to manage their screen time, TikTok is helping to promote healthy digital habits and reduce the risk of digital addiction." TikTok's new features are currently being rolled out to users, and the company plans to continue monitoring user feedback and making improvements to the platform. As the social media landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether TikTok's efforts will have a lasting impact on digital well-being.