Daughter's friend group doing something sus on TikTok

Jan 41 min read

So my 14yo daughter mentioned that some girls at school are doing one of those challenges where they film themselves without parental permission and post it. She said it's "just dancing" but ngl I'm worried. I asked to see what she's doing on TikTok and she shut down completely. Now I'm that dad but also... I want to understand what's actually happening vs. assuming the worst. Do I sit down with her and ask to follow her account? Demand her password? I don't want to invade her privacy but also she's 14. Anyone navigate this successfully?

6 comments403 views

Comments(6)

DDusty M.New DadJan 5

Which challenge are we talking about here? There are so many and they pop up weekly. That context matters for how to handle it.

KKeith L.RegularJan 6

The key is not making her feel like you're judging her friends. That'll just make her defensive and less likely to tell you what's actually going on.

DDan W.RegularJan 7

14 is such a tough age for this stuff. I'd have a calm conversation about it rather than freaking out. Ask her why she thinks her friends are doing it.

JJasonNew DadJan 7

Honestly some of these challenges are just dumb and harmless, others are genuinely dangerous. Need more details on what sus means in this case.

MMike P.New DadJan 7

My daughter mentioned something similar last month. Turned out it was way less dramatic than I imagined. Kids talk about this stuff way more casually than we do.

RRyan M.New DadJan 7

Don't go full boomer and ban TikTok. Just stay aware and keep the lines of communication open.