TikTok is a popular social media platform that has gained immense popularity among teenagers in recent years. One of the most significant trends on this platform involves erotic content, which often portrays gender roles and stereotypes. This trend can significantly impact young people's understanding of sex, sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. Adolescents are especially vulnerable to this influence because they are still developing their views on these issues.
The main source of TikTok's erotic trend virality comes from its ability to create a sense of community through sharing personal experiences, including erotic ones. Users can post videos about their romantic or sexual lives, either alone or with others. These videos usually involve dancing, singing, or lip-syncing to music related to dating, love, and physical attraction. The app also features challenges and memes that encourage users to create videos showcasing their own sexual desires and preferences.
These trending videos often depict unrealistic body types, gender norms, and sexual behaviors.
Some videos feature men who perform explicit acts like grinding on women without consent or pressuring them into certain sexual positions. Others depict hypersexualized clothing choices or suggestive poses. Some even glorify unhealthy relationships or promote abusive behavior.
Adolescents may begin to see themselves as objects meant for visual pleasure rather than complex individuals with unique needs and wants. They may also learn that certain genders possess specific traits or qualities, such as masculinity being synonymous with strength and aggression.
Young people may internalize the idea that success in romance requires performing particular actions or following strict rules, leading to anxiety or shame if they cannot meet those expectations.
Several studies have examined the impact of TikTok on teenagers' understanding of sex and relationships. One study found that many teens saw TikTok content as normalizing hookup culture and promoting casual sex without discussing safe practices or emotional intimacy. Another study noted that users felt pressure to conform to gender stereotypes and engage in risky behaviors.
Researchers found that girls were more likely to be objectified and portrayed as sexual objects than boys, reinforcing harmful gender roles and creating unrealistic beauty standards.
Other studies suggest that TikTok can be a platform for healthy discussion and education about sexuality. Some creators use the app to share information on contraception, consent, and STD prevention, while others provide advice on navigating difficult situations like breakups or rejection. Still, these messages are often overshadowed by the sensationalized and exaggerated nature of erotic trends.
TikTok's popularity among adolescents has led to an explosion of erotic trends that influence their views on sex, sexuality, and relationships. While some users benefit from educational content, most encounter harmful messages that promote unhealthy attitudes toward gender roles, desirability, and relational negotiation. Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to address this issue before it becomes too prevalent and widespread.
To what extent does TikTok erotic trend virality influence adolescents' understanding of gender roles, desirability, and relational negotiation?
The popularity of erotic content on social media platforms like TikTok has been increasing over time, with a growing number of creators sharing explicit videos that challenge traditional notions of gender roles, desirability, and relational norms. This trend is particularly impactful among teenagers, who are more likely to be exposed to these videos than older generations.