Instagram has become one of the most popular social media platforms in recent years, especially among young adults.
It is not just used to share photos and videos but also for various purposes such as self-expression, entertainment, and even dating. One of the most prominent features of this app is its ability to create aesthetic images that appeal to the eyes. This feature allows users to express their personality, interests, and desires through visuals. Instagram's erotic aesthetics shape unconscious perceptions of desirability, relational power, and sexual identity in several ways.
Instagram provides an opportunity for individuals to present themselves as desired objects of desire. Users can post pictures and videos of themselves wearing revealing clothing, makeup, and poses to attract attention from potential partners. They can also create a narrative about their personalities through captions and descriptions that emphasize their physical attributes and sexuality. This creates a competitive environment where people try to outdo each other by posting increasingly explicit content. The use of filters and editing software further enhances these visuals, creating a false sense of reality.
Instagram's erotic aesthetics reinforce traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Women are often portrayed as submissive, passive, and sexually available while men are depicted as dominant, aggressive, and assertive. These gendered expectations create a power imbalance between genders, with women having less control over their sexuality than men. Moreover, men who do not fit into these norms may feel pressure to conform or be marginalized as 'outcasts.'
Instagram's erotic aesthetics normalize certain behaviors and relationships.
Couples who display public displays of affection (PDA) become popular among followers, making them more likely to receive likes and comments. PDA is seen as proof of the couple's intimacy and commitment, but it also reinforces the idea that heterosexual relationships should be expressed physically. In contrast, same-sex relationships are often censored on social media due to social stigma, leading to implicit discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Instagram's erotic aesthetics shape unconscious perceptions of desirability, relational power, and sexual identity in ways that can impact individual and societal attitudes towards gender, sexuality, and relationships. While there are benefits to using social media for self-expression, it's essential to recognize its limitations and potential risks. Users should be aware of how they present themselves online and avoid creating harmful narratives based on outdated stereotypes.
How do Instagram erotic aesthetics shape unconscious perceptions of desirability, relational power, and sexual identity?
Instagram is an online social media platform that has become increasingly popular among people of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. One niche on Instagram that has gained significant attention is erotica, which often includes images and videos depicting sexually suggestive content. These posts are typically aimed at adult audiences but may also appeal to younger viewers as well.