The Impact of TikTok Social Media Use on Changes in Students' Social Behavior at SMPN 2 Rawamerta

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the impact of TikTok social media use on changes in students' social behavior at SMPN 2 Rawamerta and to describe the school's efforts to address these changes. This research used a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study method. The research subjects consisted of the Vice Principal for Student Affairs, a Civics Education teacher, and an eighth-grade student, selected purposively based on their relevance to the research focus. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation, then analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that TikTok influences students' social behavior, particularly in the use of viral language, communication ethics, learning focus, cooperation, empathy, and peer interaction. Some students tend to imitate expressions, jokes, or trends from TikTok, which may affect their manners and discipline at school. The school responds to these issues through restrictions on mobile phone use, student guidance, digital literacy, character education, educational sanctions, and cooperation with parents. This study concludes that TikTok has both positive and negative impacts, but its negative influence can be minimized through consistent guidance and character-based digital literacy.