Since its release in 2016, TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms for young people around the world. Its primary feature is short videos that users can easily create and share with others through their smartphones or tablets. Among the many video genres available on this platform are those related to dance and music, which have been widely embraced by adolescents due to their ability to express themselves creatively while having fun.
Some of these dances have caused controversy because they involve suggestive choreography or movements that promote performative sexuality. In addition, research shows that adolescents who consume these types of videos may internalize them as part of their relational identity, affecting their behavior and communication patterns in real life.
One example of an erotic dance trend on TikTok is the "WAP Challenge," based on the song "WAP" released by American rapper Cardi B. The challenge involves participants doing seductive hip-hop moves with provocative clothing and makeup. Although the original video was intended to empower women and celebrate their sexuality, it quickly became popular among adolescent girls, who often imitated it without understanding its underlying message. This has led to criticism from parents and educators who fear that such behaviors could normalize objectification and sexualization among young people.
Another reason why TikTok's erotic dance culture should be carefully monitored is that it creates a false sense of intimacy between users. Many of these videos show couples dancing together closely or alone, making it seem like a natural way for two people to connect romantically. Adolescents who see this type of content may start to believe that physical contact is necessary for any relationship, even if they do not feel comfortable or safe enough to initiate it. This can lead to unhealthy relationships based on performance rather than genuine connection.
It is also worth noting that TikTok does little to protect minors from potentially harmful content. Users under 13 are allowed to create accounts but cannot post anything publicly; however, this restriction is easily circumvented using VPN software or multiple devices. In addition, many creators share explicit material disguised as innocent dance challenges or beauty tutorials. Parents need to talk about online safety with their children to help them navigate this complex landscape.
TikTok's erotic dance culture contributes to performative sexuality by encouraging adolescents to view sex as a form of entertainment rather than an intimate expression of love. It also blurs the line between virtual and real-world interactions, promoting behavior that could be dangerous in certain contexts. While teenagers must explore their bodies and desires during puberty, adult guidance is essential to ensure they understand healthy boundaries and communication patterns. As such, parents, educators, and social media companies have a responsibility to intervene when needed and promote positive role models that value respect and consent.
To what extent does TikTok erotic dance culture normalize performative sexuality, and how do adolescents internalize these behaviors as part of relational identity?
The popularity of TikTok has given rise to an increasingly dominant trend in which young people engage with one another through highly sexualized content, often including sexually explicit dancing. This phenomenon has been described as "the digital generation's most progressive form of communication," wherein individuals create videos that reflect their values and beliefs regarding gender roles, power dynamics, and social norms.