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Tech News: The ‘Flip the Camera’ trend involves a group dancing while using the front camera, so they can see themselves. At the end, they suddenly flip the camera toward the person recording. That person is usually unaware they will appear in the video. The reveal is often used for comedic effect. Viewers then react to how the person looks or behaves. Critics say the trend is built on making someone else uncomfortable. It is spreading faster than expected on TikTok.
According to Know Your Meme, one early viral example was posted by TikTok user @jaycrudddy. That video gained over a million views in just weeks. The format looked playful at first. Many users started copying it without considering impact. It is now being shared by groups across schools, public spaces and events. Most recorders are unaware they will be shown on camera. The trend has grown rapidly but has faced equal amount of criticism.
Many social media users argue the trend is insensitive. They say it often targets less-popular people, older individuals or even unhoused persons. Some participants laugh in videos, suggesting the person shown is the joke. Instagram creator @coquettesvanilla called it “straight up bullying”. She said these posts leave people feeling insecure. Critics note bullying is not always loud. If someone gets hurt, it cannot be considered entertainment. Comments online reflect serious concern.
Several high-profile creators have spoken against it. TikTok user @hhyy1037 described it as “disgusting”, adding that the person shown is usually “the kindest human” who only agreed to help. Influencer @Tinx, with 1.5 million followers, said this goes beyond meanness and is “plain cruelty”. She also commented she would punish her kids if they participated in this trend. Larger accounts are urging followers not to support such content. Message is clear: humor should not harm.
Psychologists say social media embarrassment can cause long-term emotional impact. Unplanned exposure can damage self-confidence. Some viewers also comment negatively, making it worse for the person shown. The effect is more intense among teenagers and sensitive groups. Public shaming through online trends can lead to anxiety. Experts suggest creators should take permission before filming others. They also recommend platforms promote ethical content creation.
Although the trend became popular quickly, backlash has grown even faster. Majority of comments now discourage participation. Many users report such videos while some creators remove their own posts. The discussion has shifted from dance videos to digital ethics. People are questioning how harmless formats turn insulting. Some are calling for TikTok to take action against public shaming content. Others expect the trend may disappear with rising awareness.
So far, TikTok has not made any official statement. The platform may act if complaints increase. However, experts believe negative public response alone may kill the trend. Users are becoming more mindful of what they share. Influencers pushing back is also speeding decline. Whether the trend stops by policy or pressure remains uncertain. But the debate highlights how quickly social media fun can turn into criticism.