Teenage interaction with Tiktok: Media and communication insights into engagement patterns

• Andaleep Sadi Ades ^[1]
  1. [1] Umm al-Qura University

     Umm al-Qura University

     Arabia Saudí

     
• Localización: Fonseca, Journal of Communication, ISSN-e 2172-9077, Vol. 30, Nº. 1, 2026, págs. 28-42
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • This study aims to examine the relationship between teenagers (aged 15-27) and their interaction with TikTok, focusing on three key aspects: (1) how TikTok fits into their overall media consumption, (2) the ways they engage with and use the platform, and (3) the influence of social media metrics on fashion subcultures. By addressing these questions, the study provides insights into the evolving role of TikTok in shaping youth culture, fashion trends, and digital behavior. A cross-sectional quantitative research design was employed, utilizing an online survey distributed to 760 participants worldwide. The survey consisted of structured questions assessing TikTok usage frequency, engagement strategies, media consumption habits, and perceptions of algorithm-driven fashion trends. Statistical analysis, including descriptive and inferential methods, was conducted to identify significant patterns and correlations in the data. The findings reveal that TikTok is a dominant platform for teenage media consumption, with high engagement levels driven by algorithmic content recommendations. The study identifies concerns regarding self-esteem, social validation pressures, and the overconsumption of fast fashion due to TikTok’s trend-driven cycles. The study contributes to theoretical and practical discussions on social media influence by supporting participatory culture theory, social comparison theory, and networked publics theory. From a practical perspective, the findings suggest that fashion brands, influencers, and content creators must adapt their strategies to align with TikTok’s fast-paced engagement model. Understanding TikTok’s influence remains critical for academics, marketers, and policymakers seeking to navigate the complexities of youth social media engagement.