The term "performative ritual" is used to describe how social media platforms like TikTok can be used to display relational power through acts that are typically considered private or taboo in real life. This essay will discuss the phenomenon of erotic duets on TikTok, which involve two users creating videos together that feature suggestive lyrics, dances, and facial expressions. By exploring these duets, we will see how they act as performative rituals for social belonging, desirability, and relational power display.
Let's consider what it means to have a sense of belonging within a community. In order for someone to feel like they belong, they need to fit into a certain group or culture. This often involves sharing similar interests, beliefs, and values as others around them. When it comes to sexuality and intimacy, many people may feel uncomfortable expressing their desires in public due to social norms and expectations.
On TikTok, this is made easier through erotic duets, where users can share their personal thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement.
Creating an erotic duet video allows users to display their desirability in front of an audience. People who participate in these duets show off their bodies, gestures, and facial expressions in ways that traditional social circles may not allow. This can lead to increased popularity, likes, and views, which reinforces the idea that being open about one's sexuality is attractive. It also creates a space where users can showcase themselves as sexy and desired by others.
Erotic duets demonstrate relational power dynamics between the participants. One user may be more dominant than another, leading the way in the dance or taking control over the camera. This can be seen as a way for them to assert authority or dominance over their partner.
Some duets involve role-playing or acting out fantasies, which can give insight into how each person wants to be treated during sex.
We can see that erotic duets on TikTok act as performative rituals for social belonging, desirability, and relational power display. By creating these videos together, users are able to explore their sexuality in a safe and welcoming environment while gaining recognition from others.
How do TikTok erotic duets act as performative rituals for social belonging, desirability, and relational power display?
TikTok erotic duet videos are an increasingly popular form of online content where two or more people interact with each other through their respective videos while lip-syncing to music. These videos can be interpreted as performative rituals that demonstrate how individuals navigate social belonging, desirability, and relational power dynamics within an online community.