BIO

Lydia Shackelford is currently pursuing a Bachelor's of Science degree in Dietetics, with the goal of receiving her Didactic Program of Dietetics verification and moving on to a graduate program. She is interested in research involving human behavior and food, as there are very prevalent psychological connections involved in human eating attitudes and behaviors. She has greatly enjoyed providing assistance in this research project and has gained valuable knowledge and experience. With the rising integration of technology into the food industry and as well as the dietetics field, she hopes that she can partake in more research such as this and increase conversations surrounding this topic.

The Influence of TikTok on the Attitudes of Young Adult Towards Eating Behavior

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to study the effect of TikTok on young adult eating behavior. The objectives consisted of analyzing the algorithm that TikTok utilizes for promoting food-related videos, evaluating the various video formats that include food in some form, and gaining an understanding of the effect that this social media app has on the eating behaviors of young adults. The study process began with an in-depth analysis of the current literature on social media and eating behaviors of young adults. A qualitative research approach was then used and a number of participants were interviewed on their social media usage, eating habits, and interaction with food-related posts. This study is significant in its promotion of an understanding on how technology, particularly social applications such as TikTok, impacts college students’ eating behaviors and self perception of their physical appearance. We hope to find evidence that supports our beliefs that social media plays a role in eating habits and perception of self. The implications of this study allow social media platforms and its users to consider the risks of benefits of frequent usage of food related media.

Keywords: TikTok, Eating, Young Adults