A new trend on TikTok has emerged, and it is causing quite a stir among teachers and students alike. The “Tally Mark” trend involves students secretly drawing tally marks on their arms or desks during class. This trend has become so widespread that it has raised concerns among educators and parents.
What Is The Tally Mark Trend?
The Tally Mark trend involves users creating small, intricate marks on their skin using a marker or pen. These marks typically resemble tiny tally marks or dashes and are often placed on the arms, legs, or hands. The trend has sparked a wave of videos showcasing users creating their own unique Tally Mark designs, sharing their techniques, and flaunting their artistic skills.
Origins Of The Tally Mark Trend
The Tally Mark trend is believed to have originated in the UK, where a similar challenge involving small marks on the skin gained traction on social media. From there, it spread like wildfire, with users from all over the world joining in on the fun. The trend has been linked to the “E-Girl” and “E-Boy” subcultures, which emphasize self-expression, individuality, and creativity.
Tally Mark Trend Explained
The Tally Mark trend appears to have originated from a spooky story that has been circulating on social media. According to the story, a student in a remote school district started drawing tally marks on their arm after seeing a ghostly figure in the hallway. The student claimed that the ghostly figure was counting down to something, and the tally marks were a way to keep track of the countdown.
Users on various social media platforms have shared the story, inspiring the ‘Tally Mark’ trend on TikTok. Teenagers, in particular, have been participating in this trend as a way to prank their teachers and friends.
Why Is The Tally Mark Trend So Popular?
So, why has the Tally Mark trend become so popular? One reason is its unique and creative nature. Users can express themselves through their Tally Mark designs, showcasing their artistic skills and personal style. Additionally, the trend has become a form of self-identification, with users proudly displaying their Tally Marks as a symbol of their membership in the TikTok community.
Tally Mark Designs And Techniques
Tally Mark designs vary widely, from simple dashes to intricate patterns and shapes. Users have developed various techniques for creating their marks, including using different colors, layering, and blending. Some users even incorporate other art forms, like henna or stick-and-poke tattoos, into their Tally Mark designs.
Criticisms And Controversies
While the Tally Mark trend has brought joy and creativity to many users, it has also raised concerns about self-harm and mental health. Some critics argue that the trend glorifies self-harm or cutting, while others see it as a harmless form of self-expression. It’s essential to prioritize mental health and well-being, especially in the context of social media trends.
FAQs
Students are drawing tally marks on their arms as part of a prank. The trend originated from a spooky story where students claimed to be keeping track of the number of times they saw a mysterious figure in their school. The more tally marks they had, the closer the figure was believed to be.
No, the tally marks are purely a prank and do not have any supernatural significance. They intend to scare and confuse others, making them believe in the existence of a ghostly figure or some supernatural phenomenon.
The trend gained momentum when it was featured in a popular horror movie, which further popularized it among young people. The movie showcased the prank and its impact on unsuspecting individuals, leading to its increased popularity on TikTok.
Yes, educators and parents are concerned about the trend. It can be disruptive to the learning environment and may cause unnecessary fear or anxiety among students who are unaware of the prank. Teachers and parents must teach students about the potential consequences of participating in such trends
Educators can address the trend by promoting open discussions about online trends and their impact on individuals and communities. By fostering critical thinking skills and digital literacy, teachers can help students navigate the online world responsibly and make informed decisions about their participation in such trends.
Conclusion
The Tally Mark trend on TikTok has gained significant attention, particularly among teenagers. While it may seem harmless, it is important for educators and parents to be aware of the potential disruptions and concerns it may cause. By promoting open dialogue and digital literacy, we can ensure that students make responsible choices online and understand the impact of their actions.
