Mom Says TikTok Inspired Son’s Suicide; Platform Promoted Death, Self-Harm Videos

Posted: April 23, 2024

Jennie Deserio, a mother from Arkansas, is raising awareness about TikTok effects on mental health after the loss of her son, Mason Edens, who died by suicide. Deserio found out that Mason regularly watched distressing videos on TikTok that promoted depression and suicide. His liking of such content highlights the dangers of excessive social media consumption among youth.

Deserio discovered over 15 videos on Mason’s account that directly promoted suicide, with some encouraging the same method he used. Despite the videos’ alarming nature, many remained on the platform, receiving thousands of likes. TikTok’s algorithm may have unwittingly exposed Mason to such harmful materials, such as suicide in teens videos, which could have contributed to his death.

“I completely believe in my heart that Mason would be alive today had he not seen those TikTok videos,” DeSerio said in an interview.

Class act

DeSerio is part of a legal action against social media companies, which challenges the legal protections afforded to platforms under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. This lawsuit seeks accountability for social media’s impact on mental health. It highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations and heightened awareness of the mental health implications of excessive social media use among youths.

Mason’s case is one of several highlighting the pervasive issue of harmful content on social media platforms. Advocates argue that TikTok effects on brain, saying the platform’s addictive and manipulative design poses significant risks, particularly for vulnerable young users.

As DeSerio awaits her day in court, she has become a vocal advocate for raising awareness about the dangers of unchecked social media consumption among children and teens. Her efforts underscore the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address the evolving challenges posed by digital platforms and their impact on mental well-being.

The social media platform is currently under scrutiny by the US government regarding privacy issues.