The popular short video-sharing app, TikTok, has become an increasingly important platform for youth to express themselves creatively and share their thoughts on various topics, including erotica. With its user base consisting primarily of teenagers and young adults, it is not surprising that TikTok has become a space where sexuality and romance are discussed openly and often depicted through different types of content such as challenges and trends.
These trends may shape adolescent perceptions of gender roles, relational norms, and sexual desirability in ways that could be harmful if not understood correctly.
One of the most common themes found on TikTok is the objectification of women's bodies. Many videos feature women dancing or posing seductively while men watch, commenting, or responding positively. This reinforces traditional gender roles wherein women are seen as objects of male desire rather than autonomous individuals who can control their own sexuality. It also suggests that a woman's worth is based on her appearance rather than her personality, intelligence, or skills. The same goes for other forms of sexual objectification, including fetishization of particular body parts or acts.
Another theme on TikTok is the idea that certain types of relationships or behaviors are more desirable than others.
Some challenges encourage couples to act out "sexy" scenarios, which might reinforce the idea that intimacy should always include physical contact and sex. Others glorify abusive behavior or suggest that certain types of partnerships (such as polyamory) are more acceptable than others. These messages can create unrealistic expectations about what constitutes healthy relationship dynamics and promote unhealthy practices like cheating and gaslighting.
TikTok erotica often portrays an idealized version of sexuality and romance that does not reflect real-world experiences. In many cases, the content excludes non-heteronormative identities or assumes all participants involved in the trend are cisgender and heterosexual. This promotes stereotypes and stigma around LGBTQ+ communities and makes it harder for young people who do not fit into these categories to see themselves reflected in mainstream media.
Many videos showcase unrealistic depictions of sex, such as orgasms or positions that cannot be achieved without extensive training. This may lead adolescents to feel inadequate or pressured to conform to these ideals.
While TikTok's erotic trends provide a platform for youth to express their views on gender roles, relational norms, and sexual desirability, they also have the potential to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and misinformation. It is important for parents, educators, and other adults to talk openly with teenagers about how these topics affect them and help them understand what constitutes healthy relationships, consent, and communication skills. By doing so, we can ensure that our next generation has a better understanding of their sexuality and the importance of respectful interactions.
How do TikTok erotic trends shape adolescent perceptions of gender, relational norms, and sexual desirability?
TikTok is an app that hosts videos ranging from dance challenges to comedy skits. Among its popular genres are erotic content. This has led to the development of various trends and challenges on the platform, which include depictions of sexually charged scenarios and behaviors that have become increasingly normalized among adolescents. These erotic trends can potentially influence teenagers' views of gender roles, relational norms, and sexual desire.