Curated online experiences are an increasingly popular way to explore sexuality and intimacy. Whether it's through virtual reality, dating apps, live webcams, or social media platforms, there is no shortage of ways for people to connect with others in a digital space that can be both fun and educational.
These experiences often come with their own set of expectations and scripts that users must follow in order to succeed.
One example of this is the growing trend of "curated" erotica, where writers create detailed narratives about characters who engage in various sexual acts. While some may view this as harmless entertainment, others argue that curated erotica can reinforce problematic gender norms and sexual behaviors.
Many stories portray men as being dominant and women as submissive, which can lead to unhealthy relationships in real life.
Certain behaviors such as dominance/submission or exhibitionism may become normalized, leading to further issues down the road.
Another area where curated online experiences have an impact is in dating culture. Many apps now allow users to browse potential partners based on specific criteria, such as appearance or interests. This can create a sense of entitlement among users, who expect their ideal partner to fit into a narrow box of what they consider desirable. It also creates a pressure to perform in certain ways - such as always sending the first message or maintaining perfect physical appearances - that can make it difficult to establish meaningful connections.
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are rife with content that promotes certain types of sexiness or intimacy. From cosplay to body positivity, there's no shortage of hashtags and accounts dedicated to exploring all aspects of sexuality.
These curated experiences can often lead to unrealistic expectations when it comes to meeting someone IRL (in real life). People may feel pressured to live up to certain standards set by influencers or models they follow on social media, which can be harmful if they don't match those expectations.
Curated online experiences can have both positive and negative effects on our understanding of sexual behavior and expectations. By becoming more aware of how these narratives shape our interactions with others, we can start to break free from them and cultivate healthier attitudes towards sex and relationships.
How do curated online experiences establish behavioral scripts and expectations in sexual contexts?
The curated online experiences such as social media platforms create expectations of behaviors in sexual contexts through the creation of social norms based on the patterns that are displayed by their users. These curated experiences often showcase certain behaviors and attitudes related to sex which can lead to a script for those who engage with them, leading to a narrowed view of what is considered acceptable or normal in a sexual context.