What is Queer Content?
Queer content refers to any media that portrays people who are outside of the heteronormative binary of male/female gender identities and cisgender sexual orientations. This includes representations of LGBTQ+ individuals, non-binary genders, pansexuals, asexuals, polyamorous relationships, kinks and fetishes, and more. Examples include TV shows like "Billions" or "Transparent", movies like "Call Me By Your Name", podcasts like "The Gayest Episode Ever", books like "The Velvet Underground", music videos like "Sexual Healing" by Marvin Gaye, and webcomics like "Heartsick".
How does algorithmic moderation influence the dissemination of queer content?
Algorithms used for moderating content across digital platforms prioritize mainstream narratives, which often exclude queer content due to its stigmatization and marginalization. As such, queer content creators may struggle to find an audience through these platforms unless they have significant resources for advertising or promotion. Social media algorithms also amplify content with high engagement metrics, which can discourage users from posting about sensitive topics like sex and intimacy without receiving immediate validation in return. This can lead to self-censorship among those trying to express their authentic selves online.
Some platforms have made efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in their algorithms, such as TikTok's 'For You Page' (FYP) recommendation engine and Instagram's 'Explore' feature.
TikTok's FYP has a section dedicated to queer content that highlights popular creators and trends within the LGBTQ+ community. Similarly, Instagram's 'Explore' page allows users to search for specific tags related to queerness, such as lgbtq, pride, and queerart.
How does digital platform design influence the reception of queer content?
Platform design can impact how queer content is received by audiences, particularly in terms of representation and visibility.
YouTube's recommendation algorithm prioritizes videos featuring cisgendered male creators in heteronormative relationships, while downplaying videos with non-binary genders or polyamorous dynamics.
Social media platforms often employ default settings that make it difficult for users to filter out explicit content, leading to unsolicited exposure to potentially triggering material.
Some apps offer customization options that allow users to control what types of content they see and when, such as Snapchat's 'Snap Map' which allows users to choose who can view their location and posts.
Both algorithmic moderation and platform design play significant roles in shaping the dissemination and reception of queer content online. By promoting diverse perspectives through inclusive practices like algorithm modifications and accessible features like tagging systems, digital platforms can create safe spaces where all individuals feel empowered to express themselves authentically without fear of repercussions.
How do algorithmic moderation and digital platform design influence the dissemination and reception of queer content?
Algorithmic moderation and digital platform design play an important role in the dissemination and reception of queer content on social media platforms. These factors can affect how queer content is discovered, displayed, and shared with other users, which can impact its visibility and reach within online communities.