The concept of digital performance refers to the ways in which individuals present themselves online through various forms of media such as social media, websites, and email. It is an extension of traditional performativity theory, which suggests that all human behavior is inherently performative and subject to social norms and expectations. In the context of the LGBTQ+ community, digital performance can play a significant role in shaping how individuals conceive of their identities, interact with others, and hold themselves accountable for their actions. This article will explore how digital performance shapes queer self-conception, relationality, and social accountability, drawing upon theories from gender studies and performance studies.
Digital performance can influence how queer people understand and express their identities. The rise of social media has created a space where queer individuals can connect with one another and share their experiences, but it has also led to the creation of new stereotypes and expectations around queerness.
Certain types of sexual acts or behaviors may be more accepted within specific communities based on what they see online.
Queer people may feel pressure to conform to certain beauty standards or behaviors in order to fit into these online spaces. This can lead to feelings of isolation or anxiety if individuals do not live up to these expectations.
Digital performance can also allow for greater freedom and creativity in self-expression, allowing individuals to challenge societal norms and create new narratives around queerness.
Digital performance can shape the way queer people relate to each other. Online interactions can be more impersonal than face-to-face communication, leading to misunderstandings or hurt feelings. On the other hand, digital performance can facilitate virtual intimacy and build strong connections between individuals who might never have met otherwise. Queer dating apps like Grindr and Tinder have become popular platforms for connecting with potential partners, but they are also sites of harassment and discrimination. Some users experience racism, ageism, or body shaming while others find meaningful relationships through digital interaction. Digital performance also allows for greater anonymity and exploration of fetishes or desires that may be difficult to explore in real life.
Digital performance can impact how queer people hold themselves accountable for their actions. Social media posts or comments can spread quickly and widely, creating a sense of public accountability even when it occurs privately. Individuals may fear being 'cancelled' or ostracized by their community if they make mistakes or say something controversial online.
This can lead to a culture of shame and silence, where individuals hide their true selves or act out of fear rather than authenticity. Digital performance can also offer opportunities for activism and advocacy, as LGBTQ+ organizations use social media to raise awareness about important issues such as discrimination or violence.
Digital performance is complex and multifaceted, shaping the ways in which queer people interact with one another and the world around them. By understanding these dynamics, we can work towards greater acceptance, inclusion, and equality for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
How does digital performance shape queer self-conception, relationality, and social accountability?
The rise of digital technologies has had a significant impact on how people perceive themselves and their relationships with others, particularly for those who identify as queer. Digital performance can shape queer self-conception by providing opportunities for individuals to create and curate unique identities that may not be possible in offline contexts due to cultural norms or discrimination. This can include creating online personas that challenge traditional gender roles, exploring alternative relationship structures, and sharing personal experiences through online communities.