TikTok's Transphobia: The Swift Radicalization of Casual Behaviors
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Jennifer Mallette, Boise State University
Presentation Date
7-2023
Abstract
While the era of alt-right radicalization on YouTube is at an end, the phenomenon is reborn on TikTok; the platform’s short-form content expedites the time it takes for users to fall down the theoretical “rabbit-hole” that is alt-right radicalization. This study examines a Media Matters study, through the lens of casual anti-trans rhetoric in popular culture, politics, and social settings. The study's primary focus was how Transphobia serves as a signal for the algorithm to serve users increasingly hateful ideologies, including but not limited to misogyny, antisemitism, homophobia, and racism.
TikTok's Transphobia: The Swift Radicalization of Casual Behaviors
While the era of alt-right radicalization on YouTube is at an end, the phenomenon is reborn on TikTok; the platform’s short-form content expedites the time it takes for users to fall down the theoretical “rabbit-hole” that is alt-right radicalization. This study examines a Media Matters study, through the lens of casual anti-trans rhetoric in popular culture, politics, and social settings. The study's primary focus was how Transphobia serves as a signal for the algorithm to serve users increasingly hateful ideologies, including but not limited to misogyny, antisemitism, homophobia, and racism.
Comments
This poster was also presented at the 2023 Undergraduate Research Showcase. To view the poster please go to http://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/under_showcase_2023/10