About DeTOKs

A movement to combat mindless consumerism driven by social media algorithms.

Our Mission

DeTOKs is a consumer awareness initiative aimed at empowering people to make mindful purchasing decisions in the age of algorithm-driven social media.

We believe that while TikTok and other platforms can inspire and connect us, they can also manipulate our buying habits through clever marketing, FOMO, and endless trends. The result? Wasted money, growing debt, and environmental damage from items that end up unused or discarded.

Our goal is not to eliminate online shopping or vilify TikTok, but to promote a more conscious approach to consumption that balances inspiration with intention.

Person making mindful decisions while scrolling through social media

The Problem We're Addressing

Financial Impact

On average, Gen Z spends about $850 a year on impulse purchases of viral products.

Source: Burchill, J. (2023). Study Finds Billions Spent on Social Media Impulse Buys. NBC Connecticut.

Psychological Effects

Studies show that algorithm-driven consumption can lead to decreased satisfaction, increased anxiety, and a cycle of temporary dopamine rushes.

Source: Waters, S. (2021). How digital media turned us all into dopamine addicts. The Guardian.

Environmental Cost

Fast-moving trends result in millions of barely-used items ending up in landfills, contributing to waste and pollution from excessive production.

Source: Igini, M. (2023). 10 Concerning Fast Fashion Waste Statistics. Earth.org.

Our Approach

Education

We provide resources to help consumers understand how algorithms influence their purchasing decisions, and strategies to make more intentional choices.

  • Expert insights on media literacy and consumer psychology
  • Practical guides to mindful shopping
  • Budget-friendly alternatives to trendy items

Community Building

We're creating a space for consumers to share experiences, learn from each other, and build supportive communities that value mindful consumption.

  • User-submitted stories of TikTok purchase regrets
  • Weekly challenges to reduce impulsive shopping
  • Social media campaigns promoting mindful consumption

Join the DeTOKs Movement

Ready to take back control of your purchasing decisions? Start your journey toward more mindful consumption today.