Beyond The Scroll: The Role of TikTok in Shaping Social Opinions among Students

Abstract

In an age where a single swipe can influence how young people think, feel, and respond to social realities, TikTok has emerged as a powerful platform shaping public awareness and opinion. This study examined how TikTok shapes the social opinions, awareness, and emotional engagement of AB Communication students at Tangub City Global College (TCGC). Employing a qualitative descriptive narrative research design, the study involved fifteen (15) purposively selected Communication students who were active TikTok users and regularly engaged with social-issue content. Data were gathered through in-depth, semi-structured interviews using a researcher-developed interview guide validated by experts to ensure clarity and alignment with the study objectives. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and shared experiences among participants. Findings revealed that TikTok significantly influenced students’ understanding of social issues, transforming the platform from a source of entertainment into a medium for learning, awareness, and opinion formation. Emotionally engaging and credible content fostered empathy, encouraged critical thinking, and motivated students to participate in discussions, advocacy, and small acts of social responsibility. The study concludes that TikTok functions as a powerful digital platform that enhances media literacy, social awareness, and civic engagement among Communication students when used responsibly, underscoring the importance of critical digital engagement in academic and professional contexts.