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Understanding Online Harassment: Gaslighting, Gender Dynamics, and How Men Can Help 🌐🛑👥

Online harassment is a massive issue today, affecting people all over the internet. From nasty comments to more severe psychological manipulation, understanding how it works and how to combat it is crucial for a safer online space.

What is Gaslighting? 🎭🔥

Gaslighting is a term you might have heard a lot lately. It comes from a 1944 movie called Gaslight, where a husband manipulates his wife into thinking she’s losing her mind. Nowadays, it’s used to describe when someone makes you doubt your own reality. Online, this can look like denying things they said, trivializing your feelings, or insisting you’re overreacting. It’s a sneaky way to control and undermine someone.

Why is Gender Important in This Discussion? ♀️♂️🤝

Sexual harassment, both online and offline, is mainly a men’s issue because men are usually the perpetrators. However, society often unfairly expects women to prevent it. This mindset ignores the crucial role men play in both the problem and the solution. Men have a lot of influence over each other’s behavior. If more men step up and challenge bad behavior, we can see real change. But first, men need to see themselves not just as potential perpetrators but as allies and part of the solution.

The Impact of #MeToo 📢✊🌟

The #MeToo movement has shed light on many hidden issues of harassment and abuse. It’s made it clear that these issues are widespread and need addressing. For men, this movement is a chance to reflect on their actions and find ways to support gender equality. However, getting men involved in these conversations can be tough. Many fear social backlash or don’t know how to talk about these issues.

Many men might not realize their actions are harmful. We need to talk about these issues without painting all men as villains. It’s about inviting men to help make things better, not just blaming them. They can start by educating themselves and others about the impact of harassment and why it’s harmful. Speaking up against harassment is crucial; silence only perpetuates the problem. By taking these steps, men can actively contribute to creating a safer online environment for everyone.

Conclusion 🌟🔚🔁

Online harassment is complex and widespread, but by understanding gaslighting and gender dynamics, and encouraging men to be active allies, we can work towards a safer online environment. The #MeToo movement has started important conversations, and it’s up to all of us to keep them going and push for real change.

References

Haslop, C., O’Rourke, F., & Southern, R. (2021). #NoSnowflakes: The toleration of harassment and an emergent gender-related digital divide, in a UK student online culture. Convergence, 27(5), 1418–1438.

Jessamy Gleeson (2018) What does Gaslighting Mean?Links to an external site.The Conversation

Reinicke, Kenneth (2022) Introduction. Download Introduction.Men After #MeToo : Being an Ally in the Fight Against Sexual Harassment (Springer International Publishing)

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Week 9: 🎮Exploring the Intersection of Gaming Community and Platformization🌐

Hey gamers! 👾 Let's have a conversation about how gaming communities are changing and what platformization means. 🤏💬

Thanks to online gaming communities like Twine, Unity, and Steam, gaming has become more connected than it has in years.  These platforms have not only connected gamers worldwide but have also fostered vibrant communities where players can share tips, tricks, and experiences. In massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), players can form teams with friends, and on forums, they can discuss the newest releases. These kinds of interactions foster a sense of community and camaraderie among players.

However, worries about privacy, unstable labour, and the dissemination of misinformation have arisen as platforms monopolise and consolidate the distribution of digital media. These problems have a big impact on the gaming community and make it difficult for players to deal with them while navigating the wide range of gaming platforms.

Every platform has a distinct set of features, rules, and community standards that influence the gaming experience. The decisions we make as players have an effect on the larger gaming ecosystem, ranging from open-source platforms like Twine to industry titans like Unity.

As gamers, we have the power to shape the future of gaming communities and platformization. By advocating for inclusivity, transparency, and ethical practices within gaming platforms, we can help create a more equitable and vibrant gaming landscape for all.

Let's carry on this discussion and examine the various viewpoints and opportunities that exist within the gaming community. By working together, we can forge a community that values cooperation, diversity, and creativity while navigating the rapidly evolving gaming industry. 🌟💬

References:

Keogh, B 2021, 'The Melbourne indie game scenes: value regimes in localized game development' (Chapter 13), Download 'The Melbourne indie game scenes: value regimes in localized game development' (Chapter 13),in P Ruffino (ed), Independent Videogames: Cultures, Networks, Techniques and Politics, Routledge, pp.209-222.

Aleena Chia, Brendan Keogh, Dale Leorke, and Benjamin Nicoll  (2020). "Platformisation in game development", Internet Policy Review 9 (4). DOI: 10.14763/2020.4.1515. https://policyreview.info/articles/analysis/platformisation-game-development (Links to an external site.).

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Week 8: Filter: Good or Bad? 💄📸

In today's digital world, beauty standards and self-image have taken a dramatic turn thanks to social media platforms like Snapchat and editing apps like Perfect365. These tools let us alter our looks with just a tap, but are they all fun and games, or do they come with a darker side?

The Fun of Filters

Snapchat's Lenses, introduced in 2015, let users add fun accessories and tweak their facial features using augmented reality. Whether it’s a flower crown or a cute puppy nose, these filters can be a blast, adding a touch of creativity to our selfies. They can even stand in for makeup, giving us a polished look in seconds, which is a big confidence booster for many.

The Not-So-Fun Side

But here’s the catch: these filters often slim down jawlines, enlarge eyes and lips, and lighten skin tones, pushing a narrow standard of beauty. This can lead to what some call "Digitized Dysmorphia," where people feel pressured to constantly edit their photos to look perfect. This gap between our real and virtual selves can make us feel less confident about our natural looks.

A Double-Edged Sword

Digital beauty tools are a mixed bag. On one hand, they’re great for creativity and can make us feel good about how we look. On the other hand, they promote unrealistic beauty standards, which can mess with our self-esteem and make us feel like our unedited selves aren't good enough.

Finding Balance

So, how do we deal with this? Here are a few tips:

Be Aware: Remember that many images online are edited and don’t reflect real life.

Use Moderation: Have fun with filters, but also share unedited photos to keep things real.

Educate: Teach younger users about the impacts of digital modifications and encourage them to love their natural beauty.

Support Each Other: Help friends and family who might be struggling with body image issues by promoting positive self-esteem.

In the end, while digital beauty tools can be fun and empowering, it’s important to use them wisely. Enjoy them, but don’t let them define your worth or beauty standards. Filters should enhance your life, not control it.

References

Coy-Dibley, I. (July, 2016). “Digitised Dysmorphia” of the Female Body: The Re/Disfigurement of the Image Download “Digitised Dysmorphia” of the Female Body: The Re/Disfigurement of the Image. Palgrave Communications. 2:16040 doi: 10.1057/palcomms.2016.40

Barker, Jessica. (2020). 'Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat'. Download 'Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat'.Fashion, Style & Popular Culture. 7. 207-221. 10.1386/fspc_00015_1.

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Week 7: How Social Media and Platform Governance Are Transforming Medical Care and the Creator Economy

Today, I'd like to discuss two interesting topics that demonstrate how social media is changing the creator economy and healthcare in developing world. These areas showcase the vast opportunities and difficulties associated with the digital era.

Social Media’s Impact on Medical Care 🏥🌍

Have you ever thought about how social media can save lives? Dr. Carolina Camilo from Santiago, Dominican Republic, certainly has. She faced a tough situation in her pediatric burn unit, lacking the necessary training to prevent her young patients from scarring and losing limb function. But instead of giving up, she turned to Facebook and connected with a global network of experts through the nonprofit Physicians for Peace (PFP). 📚📲

Organizations like Worldreader are also leveraging digital technology to make health information accessible in even the most remote areas. By providing digital books and manuals on sanitation, malaria prevention, and safe birth practices via low-cost devices and mobile apps, they're making a significant impact on public health education.

The Challenges of the Creator Economy on Social Media🎥💼

Let's change our focus and discuss the creator economy, which includes TikTokers, Instagram influencers, and YouTubers. It appears to be a dream job at first, one that allows for creativity, self-expression, and even the possibility of fame. But a closer examination reveals a more nuanced reality. 🚫📉

Creators often face inequality, exploitation, and a culture of overwork. Despite the promises from platforms like TikTok and Instagram about rewarding creativity and authenticity, many creators, especially from marginalized communities, find themselves battling unfair punishments like shadow bans and content violations. These punitive measures often feel inconsistent and biased, disproportionately affecting those outside the mainstream.

Scholars have been investigating these matters, examining how platform governance and algorithmic systems impact the experiences of creators. The way creators share theories and insights about how platforms operate—which can occasionally feel like figuring out a black box—is referred to as "algorithmic gossip". In addition to assisting creators in adapting, this gossip exposes the power dynamics in place. 📈🗣️

Bridging the Gaps

These stories show the potential and challenges of digital platforms. In healthcare, social media is breaking down barriers, while in the creator economy, there’s a need for fair treatment and support for diverse voices. Let’s push for transparency, equity, and inclusivity to build a better online world. 🌍💖

References

Duffy, B. E., & Meisner, C. (2022). Platform governance at the margins: Social media creators’ experiences with algorithmic (in)visibility. Https://Doi.Org/10.1177/01634437221111923, 45(2), 285–304. https://doi.org/10.1177/01634437221111923

How Social Media Is Transforming Medical Care In The Developing World - Fast Company. (n.d.). Retrieved May 19, 2024, from https://www.fastcompany.com/3057869/how-social-media-is-transforming-medical-care-in-the-developing-world

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Week 6: Slow VS Fast Fashion?

In the modern era, the fashion industry operates at two distinct speeds: fast and slow. Fast fashion is characterised by low prices, quick trend changes, and rapid production, as exemplified by companies such as Shein. Slow fashion, on the other hand, places an emphasis on ethical, high-quality, and sustainable production methods (Domingos et al., 2022).

Fast fashion, which offers stylish designs at reasonable costs, has completely changed how consumers interact with apparel. Shein, a major force in the fast fashion industry, quickly copies runway styles and sells them to customers for affordable prices by using a short production cycle. However, there are substantial social and environmental costs associated with the fast fashion model. Fast production causes resource overuse, labour exploitation, and waste buildup in the textile industry(Priya Elan, 2021). Shein, like many other fast-fashion companies, comes under fire for its unsustainable business methods, which include degrading the environment, using cheap labour, and having inadequate working conditions throughout its supply chain(Priya Elan, 2021).

On the other hand, slow fashion presents a more sustainable alternative to the fast fashion. Slow fashion brands aim to reduce their environmental impact and promote social responsibility by valuing quality over quantity and adhering to ethical production practices (Domingos et al., 2022). By emphasising eco-friendly materials, fair wages, and transparency, these brands give customers more conscious options when making purchases (Domingos et al., 2022).

Shein's rapid growth and popularity highlight the challenges of sustainability in the fast fashion industry. Shein has come under fire for its environmental impact despite its success, with claims of excessive packaging, the use of non-biodegradable materials, and a lack of supply chain transparency among the issues raised (If You Think Fast Fashion Is Bad, Check out SHEIN - YouTube, 2021; Priya Elan, 2021). As consumers become more aware of these issues, there is growing demand for alternatives that prioritize sustainability and ethical production (Brewer, 2019; Domingos et al., 2022).

To address these concerns, Shein and other fast fashion brands must undergo a fundamental shift in their business practices. This includes investing in sustainable materials, implementing ethical labor practices, and embracing transparency throughout their supply chains (Brewer, 2019). Shein has the chance to lead the fashion industry in the direction of a more sustainable future by taking a more responsible stance.

References

Brewer, M. K. (2019). Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility. Laws, 8(4). https://doi.org/10.3390/laws8040024

Domingos, M., Vale, V. T., & Faria, S. (2022). Slow Fashion Consumer Behavior: A Literature Review. In Sustainability (Switzerland) (Vol. 14, Issue 5). MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14052860

If you think fast fashion is bad, check out SHEIN - YouTube. (2021). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4km0Cslcpg

Priya Elan. (2021). ‘Worst of the worst’: why is fast fashion retailer Shein launching a reality show? | Fashion | The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2021/aug/29/fast-fashion-retailer-shein-design-reality-show

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Week 5: #ShoutYourAbortion's Impact on Digital Citizenship and Participatory Democracy

Social media platforms have become effective activism tools in the digital age, allowing people to advocate for social change, mobilize communities, and magnify their voices. One such initiative that has gained popularity recently is #ShoutYourAbortion, a grassroots effort to de-stigmatize abortion and give those who have had the surgery a stronger voice. The #ShoutYourAbortion movement, which got its start on social media sites like Twitter and Instagram, invites people to discuss their own experiences freely with abortion in order to break social taboos and promote unity among those impacted by reproductive healthcare policies. This study aims to explore its implications for digital citizenship and participatory democracy.

Intersectionality Framework

The #ShoutYourAbortion movement highlights the principles of intersectionality by acknowledging and amplifying the diverse identities and experiences of individuals affected by abortion. People from different socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds are involved in the movement, demonstrating how these intersecting identities affect their views on healthcare access and reproductive rights. Through raising neglected perspectives and experiences, the movement adds to more general conversations about equity and social justice in digital spaces (Choi & Cristol, 2021; Kim & Lee, 2022).

Participatory Democracy

By giving people a forum to tell their stories, participate in public discussion, and push for changes to the law, the #ShoutYourAbortion movement is a prime example of participatory democracy in action. Through social media platforms like Instagram, participants make use of their rights to free speech and collective action, influencing public opinion and shaping the discourse around abortion rights and stigma. The movement embodies the principles of participatory democracy as outlined in the article by using digital technologies to promote expressive participation and personalised politics (Choi & Cristol, 2021; Kim & Lee, 2022).

Digital Citizenship Education

Understanding and navigating complex social issues in online spaces requires knowledge of digital citizenship, as demonstrated by the investigation of #ShoutYourAbortion on Instagram. Participants in the movement demonstrate digital citizenship skills such as critical media literacy, ethical engagement, and responsible advocacy. Educators and policymakers can draw insights from the movement to develop digital citizenship courses that promote inclusive discussion, critical thinking, and civic engagement in digital environments (Choi & Cristol, 2021; Kim & Lee, 2022).

All in all, examining #ShoutYourAbortion on Instagram illuminates the complex relationship that exists in the digital age between digital activism, citizenship, and public discourse. The movement is a prime example of the ability of social media to challenge social norms, raise the voices of the marginalised, and spark social change through the visual representation of personal narratives, advocacy messages, and group solidarity.

References

Choi, M., & Cristol, D. (2021). Digital citizenship with intersectionality lens: Towards participatory democracy driven digital citizenship education. Theory into Practice, 60(4), 361–370. https://doi.org/10.1080/00405841.2021.1987094

Kim, Y., & Lee, S. (2022). #ShoutYourAbortion on Instagram: Exploring the Visual Representation of Hashtag Movement and the Public’s Responses. SAGE Open, 12(2). https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440221093327/ASSET/IMAGES/LARGE/10.1177_21582440221093327-FIG5.JPEG

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Week 4: About Reality Television

Definition of Reality TV

Reality television, or reality TV for short, is like the ultimate guilty pleasure of the entertainment world. It's those programmes where actual people are cast in imaginary roles and the drama is shown to us. Big Brother, The Bachelor, or Survivor. We are obsessed with this type of television because it blurs the distinction between planned narrative and uncontrollable chaos in real life. (Helen Wood, 2022)

How Reality TV and Social Media Work Together

Imagine if your favourite reality TV show and social media as two best friends who team up to throw the party. That's what makes the entertainment world of today so magical. Reality TV and social media are like the perfect match made in pop culture heaven. Television programmes such as Big Brother and Love Island have realised that their purpose is not only to amuse viewers, but also to build communities. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook are the virtual hangouts where fans gather to gossip, debate, and obsess over their favourite contestants. It's like having a front-row seat to the drama and being able to voice your opinions from the comfort of your own couch. (Deller, 2019; Helen Wood, 2022)

Love Island as Case Study

Let's examine Love Island in more detail. For fans of reality TV, it's the ultimate guilty pleasure. The show's producers have mastered the art of keeping fans hooked both on and off the screen. They've developed an entire ecosystem where fans can dive deeper into the drama with the help of interactive polls, the official app for the show, and exclusive online content. Love Island isn't just a TV show; it's a marketing machine disguised as entertainment. From sponsored content to enabling in-app purchases, Love Island masters the art of transforming audience engagement into tangible profits. (L’Hoiry, 2019)

The Future of Reality Television

So, what does the future hold for reality television? Well, if Love Island is any indication, it's only going to get more intertwined with social media. We're talking about virtual reality experiences, personalized content, and maybe even AI-powered contestants. But seriously, reality TV will advance along with technology. The lines between fiction and reality will blur even further, and who knows, maybe one day we'll all be living in our own personal Truman Show. But until then, let's sit back, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show. (Deller, 2019)

References

Deller, R. A. (2019). Reality Television in an Age of Social Media.

Helen Wood. (2022). Big Brother is coming back – the reality TV landscape today will demand a more caring show. https://theconversation.com/big-brother-is-coming-back-the-reality-tv-landscape-today-will-demand-a-more-caring-show-188313

L’Hoiry, X. (2019). Love Island, Social Media, and Sousveillance: New Pathways of Challenging Realism in Reality TV. Frontiers in Sociology, 4, 469244. https://doi.org/10.3389/FSOC.2019.00059/BIBTEX

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Week 3: Teenage Activism and the #BodyPositive Movement on Tumblr

Teenagers on Tumblr harness the power of digital platforms to amplify their voices and advocate for social change (The Secret Lives of Tumblr Teens | The New Republic, n.d.). They challenge the limited definition of beauty that is promoted by the media by sharing selfies and personal stories that celebrate a variety of body types using the hashtag #bodypositive. By doing this, they support a developing movement that places an emphasis on empowerment, inclusivity, and authenticity.

Digital activism on Tumblr goes beyond mere self-expression; it encourages collective action and solidarity among teenagers who share common struggles and aspirations. They establish online communities where people can freely share validation and support by reblogging, liking, and commenting. People use the hashtag #bodypositive as an example to take back control of their bodies and question social norms that set beauty standards (Hutchinson, 2021).

However, the landscape of Tumblr activism is not without its complexities. While the #bodypositive movement aims to uplift marginalized voices and challenge oppressive beauty norms, it also addresses issues of representation and authenticity. According to the research, stereotypical feminine self-presentation still predominates in many selfies, despite some deviations from the mainstream beauty ideal. This demonstrates how, even in activist settings, there is constant conflict between valuing one's own identity and fitting in with society norms (Hutchinson, 2021).

Nevertheless, most selfies with the hashtag #bodypositive are linked to blogs that encourage acceptance of oneself rather than striving for personal development. This underscores the transformative potential of digital activism in developing a culture of self-love and body positivity among teenagers.

In conclusion, Tumblr serves as a dynamic platform for teenagers to engage in digital activism and promote feminist ideals through the #bodypositive movement. Despite challenges and complexities, their collective efforts contribute to a more inclusive and empowering online community. Through their activism, teenagers harness the power of social media to effect meaningful change and shape a brighter, more inclusive future.

References

Hutchinson, J. (2021). Micro-platformization for digital activism on social media. Information, Communication & Society, 24(1), 35–51. https://doi.org/10.1080/1369118X.2019.1629612

Reif, A., Miller, I., & Taddicken, M. (2023). “Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive. Mass Communication and Society, 26(6), 1038–1061. https://doi.org/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442

The Secret Lives of Tumblr Teens | The New Republic. (n.d.). Retrieved April 11, 2024, from https://newrepublic.com/article/129002/secret-lives-tumblr-teens