TikTok, Trend (Credit: OpenAI)
Tech News: In this trend, a group records a dance using the phone’s front camera so they can see themselves while performing. At the end of the video, they rush forward and flip the camera outward, suddenly capturing the person holding the phone. That person usually has no idea they are about to appear on camera.
The video is then posted online, and reactions often focus on how the person looks. The concept appears harmless but can leave the recorded person embarrassed. Many viewers are now questioning the ethics behind this viral format.
According to Know Your Meme, one of the first widespread examples came from creator @jaycrudddy. His video crossed one million views within weeks, inspiring many others to follow. Users found the format entertaining and began copying it without thinking of consequences. Soon it began appearing in schools, public places and gatherings. Most people filming did not know the reveal would become part of the content. As popularity increased, criticism grew even faster, highlighting emotional risk.
Social media users argue the trend turns ordinary or kind individuals into the punchline. Many videos feature less-popular classmates, older citizens or even unhoused individuals. Instagram creator @coquettesvanilla, with over 41,400 followers, said it has “turned into straight up bullying”. She added that fun cannot be genuine if it causes someone else pain. Some posts leave people feeling insecure or humiliated. Many now believe the trend promotes public shaming rather than entertainment.
Several high-profile creators have voiced concern. TikTok user @hhyy1037 called the trend “disgusting”, saying often the person shown is the “sweetest, most innocent human just trying to help”. Creator @Tinx, who has 1.5 million followers, called it “straight up cruelty”. She added she would ground her children if they participated. Their reactions triggered wider conversations on content responsibility. Influencers are urging followers to avoid trends that exploit others for laughs.
Experts claim forced exposure online can lead to anxiety, shame and long-term emotional stress. If someone is filmed without consent and mocked, their self-esteem may suffer. Teenagers and socially sensitive individuals are more likely to be affected. Users comment negatively on appearance or reactions, increasing psychological pressure. Specialists suggest creators should avoid making content at someone else’s cost. Simple kindness can prevent unwanted emotional harm.
Although the trend is only a few weeks old, negative reactions are rising rapidly. Many users now avoid sharing or supporting such content. Some even report videos to platform moderators. Conversations are shifting from entertainment to ethics. People now question how quickly online trends can twist into humiliation tools. As outrage grows, creators increasingly reconsider before posting similar content. Responsible content guidelines are gaining attention.
TikTok has not officially commented yet. If complaints increase, the platform might step in to regulate such content. Experts say public pressure may make the trend disappear naturally. As awareness grows, fewer people may participate in it. The message from online users is clear: trends should entertain without causing harm. Whether the trend stops by moderation or user choice, it has already sparked an important conversation on digital dignity.
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