TikTok Algorithm Traps 27-Year-Old User in Breakup Content Loop After Split

1 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 26

Days after ending a relationship, 27-year-old Atlanta accountant Jasmine Barnett saw her TikTok feed flip from comedy and fitness clips to a steady stream of breakup videos.
Weeks later, the breakup content still dominated despite her attempts to block it, leaving her feeling stuck in what she described as a depressive state.
TikTok’s recommendation system can reinforce that cycle by serving more of what vulnerable users initially watch or engage with after a split.
The resulting feeds often mix relationship autopsies, tearful confessionals, tarot readings and paid advice on winning an ex back, making it harder for some users to move on.