In this era of technology, where social media has taken over our lives, it is important for us to analyze how these platforms are affecting our society, especially when it comes to sexual desires and performances. One platform that has gained immense popularity lately is TikTok, which allows people to express themselves through various forms of content including comedy skits, dance routines, makeup tutorials, cooking demonstrations, etc., but one type of content that has been particularly interesting is erotic performance. Erotic performance refers to any kind of show or presentation that involves sexual activities such as stripteases or pole dancing. It is a way for individuals to express their sensual side while also appealing to an audience's desire for entertainment.
With its increasing trend in recent times, it raises questions about how it contributes to social comparison, performative desire, and relational insecurity among users. This article will discuss the impact of TikTok erotic performances on these aspects.
Social Comparison
One of the most significant ways TikTok erotic performances contribute to social comparison is through body image. With the rise of influencers who post videos involving sexy dances and outfits, there is pressure on viewers to compare themselves to those standards. As they see people with perfect bodies and curves, it can lead them to feel insecure about their own looks and resort to unhealthy measures like crash dieting or extreme exercise.
Some users may compare their sexual abilities with those displayed on TikTok, leading to inadequacy and low self-esteem.
Performative Desire
Another aspect where TikTok erotic performances play a role is performative desire. By watching others engage in erotic acts, viewers get caught up in this fantasy world where anything goes, leading them to seek similar experiences offline. They may become preoccupied with performing acts just like what they have seen online, which can harm relationships if not consensually explored. Moreover, it may create expectations of sex that are unrealistic, resulting in disappointment when real life doesn't meet them.
Relational Insecurity
TikTok erotic performances also contribute to relational insecurities by creating a sense of competition between partners. When one partner posts erotic content without informing the other, it can cause jealousy and mistrust. It may even make them question their relationship as it seems like their partner has moved on from them. This can be detrimental to intimacy as it disrupts trust and communication, making both parties less open and vulnerable with each other.
While TikTok erotic performances are entertaining and fun for many individuals, they have significant impacts on social comparison, performative desires, and relational insecurities among its users. Therefore, it is essential to acknowledge these issues and address them accordingly before they become more problematic.
How does TikTok erotic performance contribute to social comparison, performative desire, and relational insecurity?
Performers on TikTok commonly engage in sexualized performances that involve displaying their bodies or romantic interactions with others. These videos can create feelings of social comparison as viewers are exposed to different body types, relationship dynamics, and levels of intimacy than they may be accustomed to seeing in real life. Viewers may feel insecure about their own relationships or bodies due to these comparisons and seek validation through likes and comments on their own posts.