Firstly: What whistleblowers revealed about TikTok and Instagram
A BBC investigation spoke to more than a dozen whistleblowers from TikTok and Meta, the company that owns Instagram. What they revealed gives a clearer picture of how harmful content is handled behind the scenes.
In one case, a politician being mocked online was treated as a higher priority than a teenage girl reporting sexualised images of herself being shared. Another teenager reporting cyberbullying was also ranked lower.
Whistleblowers said political content was prioritised to maintain business relationships rather than to protect children.
Internal research at Meta also found harmful behaviour was significantly higher on Instagram Reels:
- Bullying and harassment were 75% higher
- Hate speech was 19% higher
What parents can do
- Remind children that reporting content does not always mean immediate action
- Encourage them to tell a trusted adult if something serious happens online
- Show them how to block users and take screenshots as evidence
Secondly: The rise of “looksmaxxing” targeting boys
Looksmaxxing is a growing online trend targeting teenage boys.
It often begins with normal habits such as skincare or exercise, but in some online communities it becomes much more extreme. Boys are encouraged to judge themselves based on features like their jawline, body shape, height, and overall appearance. Some even upload photos to be rated by strangers.
Research shows over 40% of teenage boys are unhappy with their body image, yet there is far less conversation around boys and body image than girls.
This content can contribute to body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, and unhealthy pressure to change appearance. Many creators promoting this trend also make money through courses, supplements, or paid communities.
What parents can do
- Talk about how social media exaggerates beauty standards
- Help children understand that some creators profit from insecurity
- Encourage healthy habits and open conversations about body image
Thirdly: The Manosphere and the business behind it
A recent Netflix documentary on the Manosphere highlights a growing online space aimed at teenage boys.
One creator openly admitted he knows young boys are his main audience. He said they should not be watching his content but continued posting and placed the responsibility on parents.
This space is not just content. It is a business. Behind many videos are paid courses, private membership groups, and schemes designed to make money from young audiences.
Even when accounts are banned, the content often reappears on other platforms.
What parents can do
- Ask your child what they are watching online without judgement
- Watch clips together and discuss them
- Help them recognise when content is trying to sell something
Staying informed helps parents guide their children through a fast-changing digital world.
