Verizon shares tips on how to keep a close eye on risky social media challenges

You probably don't participate in them, but you've surely heard of them numerous times in recent times – social media challenges.

It's like this: someone performs something amusing, surprising or risky, posts it online and invites others to repeat it.

Things are changing

As Verizon outlines in a new blog post, many trends today no longer begin as clearly labeled "challenges". Instead, they emerge across platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Discord or private group chats. A single video gains traction and others start imitating it. These trends often spread quietly at first, sometimes becoming widespread before parents, educators or other adults are even aware of them.

Recent examples include the Chromebook Challenge (where students intentionally damage computers) – something which is way more negative than simple dance routines live on TikTok.

But why?

Teenagers are particularly drawn to these trends, largely due to social and developmental factors. The desire for attention and peer approval plays a central role, as participating in trends can strengthen social bonds and boost visibility through likes and shares.

At the same time, brain development contributes to this behavior. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control, does not fully mature until the mid-twenties. As a result, teenagers are more likely to act impulsively and prioritize immediate social rewards over potential long-term consequences, especially when they perceive that their peers are doing the same.

Essential conversations

This is why conversations between parents and teens are essential. Rather than approaching the topic with confrontation, it is more effective to start with curiosity.

What this means is that one can ask their child about current trends at school. Understanding who creates and shares these videos can also help highlight the difference between private jokes and content that may spread widely.

Watching trends together can further support open dialogue. By asking what makes a particular trend appealing, parents can better understand their teen's perspective while creating an opportunity to discuss judgment and online reputation in a more natural way.

Talking regularly

Ongoing conversations about social media should begin early and continue regularly.

Encouraging safer, more positive trends (like dance routines, creative collabs or charity challenges) lets teens join the fun without risking becoming the next cautionary tale online.

Families can also get involved by turning the whole "challenge" idea into something less chaotic, like a friendly competition or shared activity that doesn't require damage control afterward.

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