Social media trends can spread fast, and not all of them are harmless. One concerning challenge, known as the TikTok Bathroom Vandalism Challenge (also called Devious Licks), has led to costly damage in schools.
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Why Do Students Participate?
- Many join in due to peer pressure—they don’t want to feel left out.
- The challenge creates a sense of online fame, rewarding bad behavior with likes and shares.
- Some students see it as a harmless prank, not realizing the serious consequences.
The Role of Social Media
- TikTok and other platforms make it easy for trends like this to spread quickly.
- Even if TikTok removes these videos, students may still hear about the challenge through friends or other apps.
- Some students feel pressured to participate just to fit in.
What Is the Bathroom Vandalism Challenge?
- Students post videos of themselves vandalizing school bathrooms and share them on TikTok.
- Damage ranges from throwing trash and toilet paper to removing soap dispensers and destroying plumbing fixtures.
- The goal? To gain likes and attention—but at a high cost to schools.
How This Trend Affects Schools
- Schools have reported significant damage, leading to costly repairs.
- Some schools have closed restrooms to prevent further destruction.
- Classroom time is disrupted as students are disciplined, and additional homework may be assigned to make up for lost lessons.
TikTok Bathroom Vandalism Challenge in the News
School officials across the US have expressed alarm over instances of vandalism inspired by a viral TikTok challenge known as “devious licks”.
Incidents often posted to the video-sharing platform have included students smashing up bathroom mirrors and sinks and stealing soap dispensers and even turf from sports fields at rival schools. – The Guardian
What Are the Consequences?
- Legal trouble – Vandalism is a crime, and students could face serious penalties.
- School discipline – Suspensions, expulsions, and fines may apply.
- Financial burden – Schools and parents may be responsible for repair costs.
How Parents Can Prevent This Trend
- Talk to your child about what they see online, especially on TikTok.
- Explain the consequences of vandalism—legal trouble, school discipline, and financial damage.
- Remind them that nothing online is truly anonymous—law enforcement and schools can track posts.
- Encourage positive social media use, like following trends that promote kindness or creativity.
- Monitor their social media activity to understand what they’re engaging with.