The current era is characterized by an increasing visibility and acceptance of non-heterosexual identities such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, asexual, pansexual, etc., which have been given a new platform through digital and mass media. This has led to more awareness and understanding of these identities among the general population, but also raises questions about their role in shaping public perception and the long-term consequences for social inclusion.
Digital and mass media platforms provide an important space for queer individuals to express themselves freely and share their experiences, making them visible and challenging stereotypes. This can create a sense of community and solidarity, leading to greater self-acceptance and empowerment.
It can also lead to increased pressure to conform to certain norms and expectations, potentially limiting individual expression and diversity within the LGBTQ+ community.
Media representations of queerness often focus on sexuality, eroticism, and intimacy, reinforcing stereotypical ideas that negatively impact people's lives outside of the media sphere.
There are concerns about how media representations of queer identities may shape broader attitudes towards gender and sexuality, particularly regarding social inclusion and acceptance. While some argue that increased visibility leads to greater tolerance and equality, others suggest that it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and excludes those who do not fit into neat categories. The effect on children is another significant issue, with media portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters potentially influencing their own identity development and perceptions of acceptability.
While digital and mass media platforms offer important opportunities for queer individuals to connect and be heard, they also have complex implications for social inclusion and representation. It is crucial to recognize these effects to ensure that all voices are truly represented and respected in our society.
How do digital and mass media platforms shape the formation, negotiation, and public perception of queer identities, and what are the long-term consequences for social inclusion?
Digital and mass media platforms play an increasingly important role in shaping how people construct their personal identity, including those who identify as LGBTQ+ (Halperin et al. , 2018). Through these outlets, individuals can access information about community resources and other like-minded individuals, express themselves creatively through videos and blog posts, and engage with others who may share similar experiences.