Many people on social media want likes to feel good. Influencers need likes to stay popular. So, influencers probably want likes to feel good too.

Just as reality TV stars gain fame by sharing personal moments, influencers gain followers by sharing their lives on social media. Like reality TV, social media encourages a culture of performative self-presentation.

TikTok challenges are getting more extreme, and people are taking bigger risks to go viral. Some have gotten hurt or even died trying dangerous stunts. These trends can encourage unsafe behavior just for likes and views.

Many influencers I follow post about their workout routines and healthy eating. My friend started exercising and eating better after seeing those posts. So, influencers might inspire people to live healthier lives.