Dampak Penggunaan Aplikasi Tiktok terhadap Karakter Siswa dan Siswi SMP Swasta Budi Agung Medan

Abstract

The development of technology is very important because the rapid exchange of communication and information requires technology. There are no limits to technological development, such as the emergence of the TikTok application. Since 2020, TikTok has become one of the most downloaded applications, with a percentage of active users of 70.8%. This application ranks fourth after WhatsApp, Instagram and Facebook with some of its users being students. This study aims to analyze the impact of the TikTok application on student character by linking the digital socialization theory proposed by Howard Gardner and Katie Davis (2013). The method used in this research is quantitative method and explanatory research type. Data collection techniques with a survey model by distributing questionnaires that have been tested for validity and reliability to respondents as many as 75 students and female students at SMP Swasta Budi Agung Medan. For data analysis techniques, namely using the normality test, simple linear regression test, and partial test (t test) using the SPSS 26 application for data processing. The results of this study show that TikTok has more positive impacts on students' character, especially in improving self-confidence, social skills, and creativity. However, there are also challenges faced, such as potential dependency and distraction from academic activities. Therefore, it requires wise utilization and active role from educators and parents in guiding students to use TikTok in a positive way because Tiktok can acts as a digital socialization agent that significantly shapes student character.