Lyra Martin Culture 07.15.2022 12:Jul PM EDT

Ethically Questionable TikTok Trend Uses Strangers as Video Subjects

Several streamers in TikTok gained criticism for using strangers as a subject for their videos to keep up with a gift-giving trend.

TikTok Users Use Random People for a Trend

A Melbourne-based TikTok user has come under fire for a well-known video that Maree, featured in it, branded "dehumanizing" and "false." The video, which depicts Maree's astonished reaction to receiving a bouquet of roses from a total stranger in a busy mall, was allegedly filmed without her consent, according to Maree.

The video is only the tip of the iceberg for this TikTok craze. Tens of thousands of videos about random acts of kindness have amassed billions of views on social networking sites.

Digital anthropologist Dr. Crystal Abidin of Curtin University claims that viewers of these well-liked films profit at the expense of the receiver, which is often portrayed in a less favorable light.

Another TikTok user with nearly 7 million social media followers and more than 200 million likes, TOM, from Sydney, is well-known for his content showing purportedly selfless deeds. These include giving away things, complimenting "fits," and learning how to apply eyebrow extensions for his girlfriend.

To make every movie possible and significantly change people's lives, TOM also asks for contributions from viewers on his website.

Abidin said that the "shame levity" subgenre has been present on social media for over ten years. Its roots are in "citizen journalism," when individuals would record rude behavior in public, such as children occupying train seats or reckless driving.

This gave birth to the "random acts of kindness" genre, or "humanitarian dramas," as Abidin refers to them. She claims that the issue is that these people are unable to reject harmful virality.

Abidin added that there are methods to support someone without revealing their identity, moving beyond the discursive realm of "oh, that's so lovely."

Securing Fame is TikTok's Most Strenuous Trend

Staying relevant is the most difficult challenge to keep up with in the world of TikTok.

This year, the US is expected to spend more than $4 billion on influencer marketing, but some social media stars find it challenging to stay up and prevent their fame from fading.

On a June weekend, TikTok and YouTube celebrities flocked to the Anaheim Convention Center for the return of VidCon. This well-liked convention brings together digital innovators and companies.

Alyssa McKay, a 22-year-old social media sensation, told the Hollywood Reporter that she uploads on YouTube, YouTube Shorts, Instagram, Reels, TikTok, and Snapchat and works diligently to be adaptable and remain on trend. Still, she cautions that it might result in fatigue.

At the same time, Brittany Tomlinson, a "Kombucha Girl" on TikTok and podcaster who gained notoriety when her video went viral in 2019, says she has experienced burnout on multiple occasions.

According to a 2021 Indeed study, millennial (59%) and Gen Z (58%) employees had the most outstanding levels of burnout.

Additionally, the TikTok royalty Charli D'Amelio who recently lost her top spot in the app to comedian and former machine operator Khabane Lame, 22, spoke at the VidCon.

D'Amelio said "no bad blood" between her and the newest TikTok celebrity, who has 144.7 million followers, higher than her 142.9 million. She even offered tips to avoid being stuck and exhausted by telling content creators not to attach themselves to anything specific.