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Week 10: Online Harassment

New issues arise as society develops. The psychological pain caused by online harassment is making an impact in the digital sphere, even though the actual agony from assault may be gradually increasing. We need to question ourselves if the internet is genuinely a wonderful innovation or a double-edged sword full of enduring social issues? Online harassment is a topic of increasing public discussion and concern. The increasing number of issues such as hate speech, cyberbullying have brought attention to how severe and pervasive internet harassment really is (Pater & Kim, 2016).

What is online harassment?

The term "online harassment" covers a wide range of negative actions, such as sharing of images without consent, hate speech, insults, and frauds. Online harassment can be carried out via social networking sites, forums, emails, text messages, and other digital media. It might involve threatening, defaming, or making abusive or derogatory remarks or spreading false information about a specific person or group of people (Common Sense Media, 2018). For victims of online harassment, there can be major repercussions such as psychological distress, reputational damage, and disruptions to both offline and online activity. People who experience abuse move away from social media and towards offline harassment (Golbeck, 2018).

Cyber Bully

Many individuals can fall prey to online harassment in cyberspace. Social media users frequently experience several types of online abuse on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Public figures, such as celebrities and other well-known members of the community, are frequently the subject of online harassment that takes the form of insulting remarks, threats, or violations of privacy. Women, girls, and teenagers are particularly at risk due to their inexperience and lack of Internet literacy. Social media, video game platforms, and online gaming can all be used to harass someone.

Therefore, what are some direct strategies for combating abuse on social media? These days, it's common for social media networks to include clear community guidelines that define acceptable behaviour and prohibit hate speech, harassment, and other negative actions. Any content that has been reported will be reviewed by moderators, who may decide to remove it or suspend the offender's account. Other users may also mute or block those that harass them. Numerous sites also make use of technological innovations like artificial intelligence and algorithms to reduce and prevent online harassment. These tools can help identify patterns of abusive behaviour and stop harassment before it becomes out of hand.

References

Pater, JA & Kim, MK 2016, ‘Characterizations of online harassment: Proceedings of the 2016 ACM international conference on supporting group work’, ACM Conferences, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/2957276.2957297>.

Common Sense Media 2018, ‘What is online harassment?’, Common Sense Media, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/what-is-online-harassment>.

Golbeck, Jennifer (ed.) 2018, Online Harassment, 1st ed. 2018, viewed 24 March, 2024, Springer International Publishing, Cham.

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Week 9: Gaming communities, social gaming and live streaming.

The popularity of game streaming has skyrocketed recently, moving from a niche hobby to a popular form of entertainment. The earliest origins may be found in gameplay tutorial videos, in which users only discussed how to beat challenging stages, defeat bosses, solve puzzles, and other challenges (Stargame, 2018).

What is a gaming community?

A group of people who come together to share their love of video games is known as a gaming community. It might merely have people nearby, or it might have players from all over the world.

The impact of gaming communities

Bringing people together who are different in age, nationality, and culture is one of the main purposes of gaming communities. Games' virtual worlds offer special chances for communication and erase boundaries. Global players can create teams and compete for prizes in events. For creators, gaming communities are a valuable source of feedback. Via forums and social media, players can provide developers immediate feedback.

Streamers, Pro players and Developers

Gaming has truly become a lucrative career for many people, with opportunities spanning from professional esports careers to content creation, broadcasting, and game development. Professional e-sports players compete in sanctioned tournaments for a variety of games with the goal of earning money, rewards, sponsorships, and endorsements. Successful content creators and streamers in the game business can earn substantial incomes and build lasting careers. Millions of people watch their favourite streamers participate in everything from solo adventures to competitive eSports matches every day, turning what was once thought to be a niche hobby into a worldwide entertainment phenomenon.

The gaming industry has been greatly impacted by the expansion of game streaming, which has completely changed the entertainment landscape (Afi & Ouiddad, 2021). Publishers and developers now understand how important it is to engage directly with the gaming community through Q&A sessions, livestreams, and exclusive showcases in order to gather feedback, build anticipation for future releases, and develop devoted fan bases. Furthermore, game streaming has grown to be a profitable industry, drawing talent from a variety of backgrounds since top streamers can make significant salaries from sponsorships, donations, subscription fees, and advertising income.

References

Stargame, A 2018, ‘The past, present and future of video game streaming’, Medium, Predict, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://medium.com/predict/the-past-present-and-future-of-video-game-streaming-a9c6193ab445>.

Afi, FE & Ouiddad, S 2021, ‘The rise of video-game live streaming: Motivations and forms of viewer engagement’, SpringerLink, Springer International Publishing, viewed 25 March, 2024, <https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-78645-8_20>.

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Week 8: Beauty Filter

These days, filters are a common feature on well-known social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat, giving users a wide range of possibilities to improve their images and videos with unique effects. Among social media platforms, Instagram stands out as a prominent leader in developing AR features for its users(Alha et al., 2021).

The Instagram Story

Instagram made its debut with its first set of filters shortly after its introduction in 2010. Over the years, Instagram has regularly updated its collection of pre-existing filters and added new ones. More specifically, Instagram has enabled freelancers and developers to produce and distribute their own filters over the network. The platform now provides a large selection of filters that suit various preferences and styles as a result of this modification. Instagram beauty filters are software or digital tools that let users edit or enhance their appearance in pictures and videos. These filters can create an idealised or unrealistic representation of a person's appearance by changing facial features, skin tone, eye colour, and even adding visual effects.

Drawbacks

While filters are great for creativity and customisation, they have drawbacks as well, especially when it comes to how they affect one's own standards of beauty and self-perception. Although filters might encourage happiness and creativity, they can also warp reality and reinforce unattainable beauty standards. Aiming for perfection in one's online imagery might lead to negative comparisons or feelings of insecurity.

References

Alha, K, Choi, TR, Baumeister, RF & Beyens, I 2021, ‘“what lies behind the filter?” uncovering the motivations for using augmented reality (AR) face filters on social media and their effect on well-being’, Computers in Human Behavior, Pergamon, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563221004490>.

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Week 7: The impact of Influencers on Body Modification

Body Modification

Non-traditional celebrities, such as fitness models, bloggers, vloggers, and "instafamous" people with a significant following on social media, are known as micro-celebrities. A variety of industries have employed micro-celebrities for commercial purposes, but the fitness and gym industries have made this practice most common.

The term "pornification" describes how advances in technology have affected the production, accessibility, and use of pornographic material. Pornification can also refer to broad liberalisation and deregulation processes in the domain of pornography, in addition to technical advancements in the media (Paasonen, 2016).Particularly in the present day, a growing number of social media platforms permit pornographic content. Instagram, one of the largest social media platforms worldwide, has experienced issues with pornography.

But underlying these visually appealing pictures is a complicated network of problems. The objectification and sexualization of modified bodies can occasionally result from an emphasis on aesthetics, which takes attention away from the importance of individual expression and instead places it on getting likes and comments. Furthermore, a person's body image and self-esteem may suffer if they are constantly exposed to carefully maintained online personas that promote gender stereotypes and unattainable beauty standards.

It is important that society continue to focus on promoting acceptance of varied body types and self-acceptance. We can create a more positive and welcoming atmosphere for everyone if we accept people of all shapes and sizes. It is critical to recognise that beauty is a complex concept; people shouldn't feel pressured to change how they look in order to fit into a predetermined definition of beautiful.

References

Paasonen, S 2016, ‘Pornification and the mainstreaming of sex’, Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Criminology, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://oxfordre.com/criminology/display/10.1093/acrefore/9780190264079.001.0001/acrefore-9780190264079-e-159>.

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Week 6: Social Media Influencers and the Slow Fashion Movement

Social Media Influencers

The term "social media influencer" (SMI) refers to a broad category of people who have gained popularity on social media, suggesting that these content producers have developed an avid following in addition to their own networks (Jolliffe, 2021).

Fast Fashion

Fast fashion is a business strategy that focuses on bringing fashion collections to market as quickly as possible. The looks of designers and celebrities, as well as current trends, serve as inspiration for the collections. These stylish goods needed to be accessible as soon as possible. Most of them were manufactured at a very low cost and with poor quality, thereby skimping on both the product's artistic and quality standards.

Slow Fashion

The slow fashion movement is made up of businesses that value high-quality products, ethical stewardship, and sustainable practices. They naturally promote sustainability by using more ethical sourcing and production techniques, in addition to using organic, recycled, or more durable materials (Domingos et al., 2022). On the other hand, mass-produced, low-quality clothing that competes with the expanding needs of consumers globally poses a serious threat to the slow fashion movement. Therefore, it is essential to implement government legislation, align supply chains, and raise consumer knowledge and engagement in order to bring rapid fashion and slow fashion into harmony.

Purchasing high-quality clothing seems to be less appealing to younger consumers, who appear more drawn to rapid fashion. This is a result of the numerous social media and e-commerce sites they utilise, which are continuously promoting these goods. Apps like Shopee and Shein are well known for offering clothing at discounted prices despite the possibility of unethical business practices due to the large profit margins taken by manufacturers and retailers.

References

Domingos, M, Vale, VT & Faria, S 2022, ‘Slow fashion consumer behavior: A literature review’, MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/14/5/2860>.

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Week 5: Digital Citizenship, Hashtag Publics, Political Engagement and Activism

Different views of digital citizenship

With the development of technology, the Internet has become a necessary part of every individual's daily routine. Additionally, social media has emerged as the most widely used platform for entertainment and communication. In today's interconnected world, where virtually every aspect of our lives is influenced by digital technology, the concept of digital citizenship has become increasingly relevant. Digital citizenship expands the concepts of traditional citizenship to the online sphere, while traditional citizenship concentrates on rights and obligations inside a physical nation-state (MediaSmarts, 2023).

Hashtags

A hashtag is a term or phrase that appears before the hash symbol (#) and is used in a post on social media to help people who are interested in a particular topic find it when looking for a tag or hashtag that starts with #. Its goal is to increase interaction and draw attention to the post (O’Brien, 2023). It is obvious that hashtags facilitate communication, give context, allow users to join in on conversations, and request information. Hashtags have significantly aided in connecting with not just politics, but also other events or topics. Hashtags can connect many people around the world about an event or issue that is being discussed a lot on social networks such as Twitter and Tumblr.

Political Impact

The Internet has brought about profound changes in how citizens engage with politics, transforming the practices of stimulation and organization. Political engagement has transcended among traditional methods, with the advent of digital technologies allowing individuals to participate in active citizenship and involvement in politics (Weare, 2006). People are aware of the importance of communication platforms in advancing social justice, bringing important topics to people's attention, and inspiring collective action. They gain knowledge on how to use their virtual voices to support constructive change, take part in significant projects, and contribute to a more democratic society.

References

O&#8217;Brien, C 2023, ‘How to use hashtags effectively on social media’, Digital Marketing Institute, Digital Marketing Institute, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://digitalmarketinginstitute.com/blog/how-to-use-hashtags-in-social-media#:~:text=A%20hashtag%20is%20a%20word,your%20posts%20and%20encourage%20interaction.>.

Smarts, M 2023, ‘What is Digital Citizenship?’, MediaSmarts, viewed 24 March, 2024, <https://mediasmarts.ca/digital-media-literacy/general-information/digital-media-literacy-fundamentals/what-digital-citizenship>.

Weare, C 2006, ‘(PDF) the internet and democracy: The causal links between technology ...’, THE INTERNET AND DEMOCRACY: THE CAUSAL LINKS BETWEEN TECHNOLOGY AND POLITICS, viewed 22 March, 2024, <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/240242229_The_Internet_and_Democracy_The_Causal_Links_between_Technology_and_Politics>.

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Week 4: How do we consume reality television?

Reality television may be defined as a category of television shows that depict the way that ordinary people's lives are portrayed.Various elements, such as attractiveness and gender, play a crucial role in shaping the relationships that viewers establish with television characters (Bandura,1994).Reality television has been praised for giving ordinary people an opportunity to speak, improving the public's awareness of social issues, and reinventing reality programming (Deller, 2020).

While reality television can differ from an ordinary movie script, it often relies on interesting characters and emotional elements to engage viewers and develop the plot. The narrative of the show revolves around the connections, challenges, and personal journeys of the competitors, players, or performers. These elements form the core of the show's appeal. Reality TV sparks discussions not only in conventional environments like homes, offices, and schools but also extends its impact to the online world. Discussions thrive on forums, blogs, vlogs, and social media platforms, demonstrating the genre's dynamic character and its capacity to captivate audiences in both physical and virtual environments.

In the modern day, viewers have the ability to utilize a variety of gadgets, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, to conveniently and flexibly watch their preferred reality shows at any time and location of their preference. Moreover, the promotion and discussion of reality television series now primarily depends on social networking sites such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Reality television producers have adopted multimedia and cross-platform techniques to captivate audiences on many networks. In order increase the excitement and anticipation around every episode, broadcasters and creators actively promote and endorse fans' participation in sharing their thoughts, opinions, and memes on social media platforms.

Conclusion.

Ultimately, our engagement with reality TV is influenced by a multifaceted interaction of relaxation, manipulation of emotions, friendships, self-awareness and even a hint of self-criticism. The objectives behind reality TV may differ, but its indisputable potency comes in its capacity to access our fundamental yearnings for emotional involvement, interpersonal bonding, and a momentary respite from actuality. Therefore, when you get caught up in a reality show in the future, bear in mind that you are not the only one, and there are more layers to your television preferences than what is immediately obvious.

Reference

Deller, RA 2019, Reality Television: The Television Phenomenon That Changed the World, Emerald Publishing Limited.

Bandura.A.(1994). Social cognitive theory of mass communication. In J. Bryant & D. Zillmann (Eds.), MediaEffects: Advances in Theory and Research, (pp.61-90) Hillsdale. NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

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Week 3: How does Tumblr function as a digital community?

Overview

Tumblr is a multifunctional website that allows users to share contents, photos, and various kinds of information.Tumblr functions as a multifaceted platform that combines aspects of a social network, a blogosphere, and social media. The platform offers high-quality material featuring unique multimedia elements, which has distinctive features that appeal to young individuals (Chang et al., 2014). The distinguishing feature of Tumblr is its strong focus on self-expression. With a wide range of customisable profiles and various content types, you are able to express your true self without any limitations.

Tumblr's core principles focus on user-centric design and a commitment to simplicity. By utilizing the reblogging technology, users may engage with others, effortlessly design content, and create customized blogs. The platform's architecture fosters a sense of intimacy and solidarity, making it an ideal space for exchanging ideas and cultivating online communities.

So what is Digital Comunities?

Digital communities are online groups formed by individuals who connect and interact with each other due to shared interests, objectives, or identities. Tumblr serves as a digital hub for these communities, enabling users to engage, collaborate on projects, and engage in discussions (Maffie, 2020). The constant interactions among users has led to the emergence of several subcultures, each characterized by distinct attributes and rules.

Tumblr's visual interface makes it an ideal platform for artistic expression. Individuals hailing from disconnected or poor backgrounds have the opportunity to exhibit their artistic abilities, be it through graphics, photography, or writing. This not only facilitates a means of expressing oneself but also presents a chance for acknowledgment and validation within the community.

Identity Negotiation and Social Justice

Tumblr has also become an increasingly popular place for exchanging personal identity and social justice issues. Users utilize the platform to share their narratives, promote those who are marginalized, and engage in dialogues that challenge prevailing viewpoints. Judith Donath's article "Identity and Deception in the Virtual Community" examines the ways in which individuals handle their online identities, with a particular emphasis on the performative aspects of self-representation. Tumblr's culture of self-expression and identity discovery aligns with Donath's observations, emphasizing the site as a platform for users to navigate and cultivate their online personas.

The significance of Tumblr in promoting activism and raising awareness cannot be understated. Marginalized communities utilize the platform to increase the public's awareness regarding societal problems, distribute knowledge, and rally backing for diverse initiatives. It serves as an effective tool for community practice, creating connections among individuals who have similar passions for influencing change.

References:

Maffie, M 2020, The role of digital communities in organizing Gig Workers, viewed 3 February, 2024, <https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/irel.12251>.

Labs, YCY, Chang, Y, Labs, Y, WalmartLabs, LT, Tang, L, WalmartLabs, Labs, YIY, Inagaki, Y, Yan Liu University of Southern California, Liu, Y, California, U of S, Washington, U of & Metrics, OMA 2014, ‘What is Tumblr: A statistical overview and comparison: ACM SIGKDD Explorations Newsletter: Vol 16, no 1’, ACM SIGKDD Explorations Newsletter, viewed 3 February, 2024, <https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/2674026.2674030>.