Digital Detox Backfire TikTok’s Paradox
TikTok’s Paradoxical Effect on Screen Time
Efforts to limit screen time on TikTok might be doing more harm than good—at least for some users. A recent study coauthored by Christopher Newman from the University of Mississippi and Emma G. Galvan from Georgia Southern University found that TikTok's built-in digital detox tools, such as time limit reminders, may actually increase screen time for certain users.
Published in the Journal of Public Policy and Marketing, the research introduces the "digital detox paradox." This phenomenon occurs when less skeptical users—those who are generally more trusting of advertising—interpret TikTok’s wellness prompts as a sign of authenticity. Ironically, this makes them more engaged with the app, using it more frequently and for longer durations.
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