TikTok has become a platform where users can create and share short videos of themselves doing anything from dancing to singing to lip-syncing to popular songs. While this app may seem harmless at first glance, it is also becoming increasingly popular for its role in shaping the way young people view and experience sexuality and intimacy. In particular, recent research suggests that TikTok's erotic virality phenomenon is contributing to the formation of unconscious relational scripts, sexual norms, and desire in adolescents.
Unconscious Relational Scripts
An "unconscious relational script" refers to the hidden beliefs and assumptions that individuals hold about romantic relationships and the roles they play within them. These scripts are often formed early in life and influence how individuals interact with others later on.
Someone might believe that their partner should always take the lead in initiating physical intimacy or that certain behaviors like jealousy or possessiveness are normal and acceptable. According to researchers, TikTok's erotic virality is reinforcing these kinds of scripts by exposing viewers to a narrow and often exaggerated version of what sexuality looks like.
Many TikToks feature young couples engaging in highly sexualized behavior that would be considered taboo in real life. This includes things like public displays of affection, suggestive clothing, and explicit language. By exposing viewers to such content, TikTok is teaching them that these behaviors are desirable and even expected. This can lead to an unrealistic expectation of sex and intimacy in actual relationships, as well as confusion and anxiety when those expectations aren't met.
Sexual Norms
In addition to influencing relational scripts, TikTok's erotic virality is also shaping sexual norms among adolescents. Sexual norms refer to the cultural rules and standards surrounding sexual activity, including what is considered appropriate and desirable behavior. On TikTok, users are exposed to a wide range of behaviors that may be perceived as deviant or risky but are portrayed as "cool" or trendy. This can include activities like threesomes, BDSM, and public sex, which many adults may consider outside the bounds of mainstream sexual practice. By normalizing these behaviors, TikTok is redefining what constitutes healthy sexual practices and potentially encouraging dangerous and irresponsible behavior.
Desire Formation
TikTok's erotic virality is impacting desire formation in adolescents by conditioning them to associate certain types of behavior with arousal and pleasure.
Viewers might see videos of people engaging in rough sex or using props during sex, leading them to believe that these actions are necessary for satisfying relationships. This can create pressure on individuals to engage in behaviors they wouldn't normally find appealing or comfortable, contributing to feelings of shame and guilt if they don't measure up to these unrealistic standards.
TikTok's role in shaping sexuality and intimacy among young people should not be underestimated. While it may seem like harmless entertainment, the platform has real consequences for how users understand and experience their own bodies, desires, and relationships. It is important that parents, educators, and other adults take an active role in helping youth navigate this new landscape, providing accurate information and support when needed.
Social media companies should be held accountable for the content they allow on their platforms and work to promote more diverse representations of healthy relationships and sexuality.
How does TikTok erotic virality shape unconscious relational scripts, sexual norms, and desire formation in adolescents?
TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms among adolescents worldwide. It is used for sharing videos related to various topics, including fashion, beauty, humor, and erotica. Erotic content on TikTok often depicts sexually explicit acts, which can shape the way adolescents perceive and express their sexuality.