Over the past few years, TikTok has exploded into one of the most influential platforms on the internet—setting music charts, fashion, and even political conversations in motion. But beneath the creativity and community lies a darker truth: some of its most viral trends come with very real risks.
The Psychology Behind the Trend
At the heart of these challenges is a powerful mix of dopamine and digital validation. TikTok's short-form videos are designed for rapid engagement—likes, shares, comments—all of which create a loop that rewards extremes. In that race for attention, some creators push boundaries further and further.
For younger users, whose brains are still developing impulse control and risk awareness, the pressure to fit in or “go viral” can be intense. The result? Stunts that might seem funny in the moment, but end in injury, legal trouble, or worse.
Examples That Raise Red Flags
The “Benadryl Challenge” encouraged users to take large doses of antihistamines to induce hallucinations. The results were tragic—hospitalizations and even deaths.
The “Blackout Challenge”, which dares users to hold their breath or restrict airflow for as long as possible, has also been linked to multiple fatalities worldwide.
The “Devious Lick” trend led to widespread vandalism in schools, as students stole soap dispensers, mirrors, and other property on camera.
“NyQuil Chicken”, a cooking stunt involving raw poultry marinated in cold medicine, was so concerning that even the FDA issued a warning.
Why They Spread
What makes these trends especially hazardous is how quickly they spread—and how difficult they are to stop. A single post can trigger hundreds of imitations in hours. Even if platforms remove the original video, variations often stay one step ahead of moderators.
And while some content is clearly labeled “don’t try this at home,” the line between parody and sincerity can be blurry, especially for younger audiences scrolling through a constant stream of content.
The Role of Platforms and Policy
TikTok has taken steps to limit the spread of dangerous challenges by banning related hashtags, increasing moderation, and directing users to safety resources. But critics argue those efforts often come too late—after a trend has already gone mainstream.
Parents, educators, and creators themselves play a crucial role in slowing the cycle. Teaching digital literacy and encouraging critical thinking—not just about what we watch, but what we choose to share—can be just as important as any algorithm tweak.
Moving Forward
At its best, TikTok is a space for joy, art, humor, and connection. But when trend culture prioritizes shock over safety, even a few seconds of content can carry lasting consequences.
If we want future platforms to be safer, smarter, and more thoughtful, it starts with asking better questions: Why are we doing this? Who does it help—or hurt? And is this really worth it?
Because not every trend deserves a spotlight. And not every challenge is worth the risk.