Category: Identity and Online Advocacy

This stream focuses on the place of identity in communities and social networks. This focus is paired with online advocacy and how it intersects with identity, community and networks.

The negative effects of Social Media on the formation of identities among adolescents         Abstract   Twelve and a half years old. The average age when a child activates his/her own personal social media account. It is also during this time that the child is making sense of his identity and navigating through the various questions taking up his curious mind. Picture a road with only one car that is being driven by a 12-year-old with a developing cognitive Read more [...]
Abstract   This paper undertakes the definition of “identity” and analyses its current meaning in a modern society and how individuals as an individual identify the self as the the world is experiencing evolution day by day, hence is the identity of individuals online, more specifically, gamers online. How do gamers sees themselves and to what do they attributes the qualities and assets of their identity in this vast online gaming community? This paper further delves into the world Read more [...]
HOLDING AMERICAN DEMOCRACY TO ACCOUNT: COMBATING BLACK IDENTITY HOMOGENIZATION WITH ‘HASHTAG JACKING’ AND ‘MEME FACTORIES’ It is not up to governments to unilaterally declare themselves ‘liberal democracies.’ Things like armed government soldiers treating supporters of one candidate or another preferentially during an election, for example, can rightly bring such claims into just dispute (Willis, Lynch & Cheeseman, 2017; Iwuoha, Obiora, Obi, Alumona, Ojimba & Obiorji, Read more [...]
Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are well-known over the world; they have brought the world and the community closer by allowing people to communicate and connect in real-time. Every day, these social media platforms strive to enhance their systems to make life simpler for their users. It increased work prospects, brought loved ones closer together, and enhanced human contact to new heights (Vanderkaay, 2010). However, most users are unaware of the drawbacks Read more [...]
Abstract: In recent years Instagram has had an increasing presence in areas of politics and policy change which can be seen through movements such as #MeToo as well as the establishment of young female activists including Grace Tame and Greta Thunberg. Theorists including Palmer and Jung, have outlined how these movements and individuals have used Instagram and other social media for their own benefit, using it to further their agenda successfully. These movements and activists have Read more [...]
The Stage That Is Instagram: How Social Media Allows People to Become Actors and Create a Performance Through Online Identity    Introduction When the world was first introduced to the World Wide Web, users were only able to play a passive role, as it was a “read-only” platform (Getting, 2007). This was socially and technologically significant at the time, but the emergence of Web 2.0 and its social media platforms allowed users to play a more active role in the communication, Read more [...]
Abstract: Socials, politics, and economics shapes every upcoming generation of teens. Today’s teens (iGen) are no different. They are considered to be “the first generations whose lives are saturated by mobile technology and social media” (Divecha, 2017). But why is social media such a significant aspect of their lives, and how does one escape the “real world” through anonymous posts and comments? Anonymity helps create a new world for younger generations with the help of Webpages Read more [...]
Stream: Identity and Online Advocacy    Keywords: Adolescent, Identity, Community, Social Media, Misinformation  Abstract Adolescent identity is in constant flux, with both their understanding and representation of self to the public being easily manipulated and reformed in their attempt to conform to the expectations of their peers and community. Although it is human nature to seek acceptance from others within more personal social spheres, social media Read more [...]
ABTRACT. This paper aims to explore the adoption of social network sites by the politically marginalised in Zimbabwe to protest against the existing government through online advocacy. The data collected from online content reveals the benefits that these network sites have brought to the politically relegated in Zimbabwe. The study mainly focuses on how these platforms have provided alternative spaces for the politically marginalised. It seeks to exhibit how the oppressed have used these Read more [...]
Abstract This paper explores the presence of environmental activism on Instagram and how the platform is hindering grassroots conservation management. The neoliberal economic structure of Instagram is analysed to uncover how shallow forms of activism known as slacktivism promotes individuals’ performative identities more than promoting useful activism. This type of online engagement perpetuates the disconnect between individuals and their local environments, as described by the Albrecht’s Read more [...]
Abstract: In today’s digital world, it is vital that parents and guardians consider the potential danger they expose their children to whenever they upload pictures and videos of them onto Facebook. In this conference paper, I explore the risks and potential consequences that children could face in the wake of their parent's or guardian’s social media ignorance. The evidence presented in this paper shows firstly, how easy it is for predators to attain a child’s location through geotagged Read more [...]
Abstract WeChat in China has become so essential it is almost unimaginable to not have the application or not be influenced by the platform and submit to its immense level and capabilities of accessibility and convenience in Chinese daily life, from daily tasks like chatting with family to ordering lunch. In this paper, a discussion of the effects that censored media and information consumption has on digital advocacy and identity will be investigated with key examples including freedom Read more [...]
Abstract In this generation, the emphasis on having both an online and offline identity is important in terms of maintaining connections with friends, and families and creating new networks to aid in career progress or for new relationships. However, social media has shaped and influenced our own realities by impacting our own mental health and physical well-being. Creating a norm for social comparison and changing our perceptions of the term “perfection”. This paper explores how everyone’s Read more [...]
Abstract Given the current state of the world and the way in which young teen get influenced, social media and influencer culture plays a big part in that. The impact of influencer culture on young teens is not just superficial but it dives deep into their social growth and the way they perceive the world. The actions and the ideologies of influencers is mimicked into the lives of young teens. This paper explores how this impact runs deep in the social growth of young teens.   Influencer Read more [...]
  Abstract: This paper discusses the rise of Islamophobia and the way Muslim women use their online presence to address the centred hate crime and negative stereotypes put forth against them. As Muslim identities are being used to connect to online users to advocate against Islamophobia and increase a positive image for Muslims, Muslim women online are incorporating their religion into their daily posts to portray an authentic side of Muslims. This paper demonstrates how the use of Read more [...]
Online identity has become a competition between users to promote ones ‘perfect’ life. Rebecca Haywood   abstract: This paper aims to explore how online identity and the portrayal of ones' authentic self has an effect on other users. Ones' online identity is how many users gain an understanding of others on the platform. However through my research I became away of a comparison between users and how it can have negative effects, particularly in mothers and adolescents. Users Read more [...]
The Role of Filters & Editing Apps in Creating False Online Identities - by Ella Jones   ABSTRACT This paper aims to discuss the role that social media platforms play in forming and shaping a young woman’s online identity and sense of self. Specific focus will be placed on the role of augmented reality filters and third-party editing apps, such as Photoshop and Facetune, in perpetuating false and extreme beauty standards for young women, as well as the detrimental effects this Read more [...]
Social Media's Role in Diet Culture and its Effects on Body Dissatisfaction Abstract: The rise in social media usage in young people has seen the rise in different disorders related to diet and body dissatisfaction. This paper looks at the different effects social media has on young people and how diet culture among influencers can negatively impact this epidemic.  Read more [...]
Nowadays, social media has not only taken an important use in our daily life but also taken a greater responsibility in giving voice to the public. Social media is constantly changing and transforming, and instead of informing, it is now leading people to participate. But more importantly, social media is starting to give communities a voice in questioning social issues and asking people to rethink and challenge them. More particularly, social media contains a huge amount of content, it maintains Read more [...]
  Abstract: Social Media Influencers are very popular and they are categorized as celebrities. Their communities are very large, sometimes reaching hundreds of million followers around the world,  most of them being very young. The online influencers are often portrayed as lucky people who live lavish lifestyles. These people earn their living by posting videos, photos, and content which are usually interesting. Their “perfect life” and their Read more [...]
  Understanding the concept behind ‘fake news’ is crucial in establishing the difference between manipulative material and insightful and honest contributions to mass media. In relation to the Russia- Ukraine war, global access to social media has created a public arena with front row viewing as the conflict is unfolding. Russia’s attempt at the use of propaganda both in Russia and on a global scale could be deemed transparent in such a technologically advanced era of online Read more [...]
Abstract: This paper aims to demonstrate how social media platforms, namely Instagram, promote and foster identity performance. By looking at the foundational aspects and functions of Instagram, such as user curation tools and instant gratification systems, and also the emerging popularity of ‘influencers’, this paper takes a look at how the platform’s encouragement of identity performance could lead to possible damage to the real-life development of the adolescents’ identity.   Social Read more [...]
Abstract: This paper discusses how people are encouraged to display/perform different versions of themselves online known as performance personalities. Social media has facilitated the change of how identity is perceived from static to multifaceted. This paper argues this by examining social media influencers, the ability to have multiple accounts on a singular platform and the modern-day issue of catfishing and begs the question, who is “real” online?   Social media has evolved Read more [...]
Abstract: Freedom of speech, a principle that supports autonomy without the fear of retaliation or censorship, gains a lot of attention across the world. Ricky Gervais, a controversial observational comedian, uses social media to fight for this right through self-promotion and encouraging dialogue around contentious subject matters. This paper delves into the strategy behind Gervais’s self-presentation online and his use of Twitter’s affordances. Gervais takes use of the short character Read more [...]
Social Media's Propagation of the Perfect Image of Women's Appearance can Cause Women’s Appearance Anxiety and Lack of Confidence   Abstract Social media's propagation of the perfect image of women has raised appearance anxiety in women. Web 2.0 is an era of community networking for all, and social media is characterised by online participation. This paper discusses the different effects of social media and traditional media on defining beauty. It examines two popular social media Read more [...]
Abstract The objective of this paper is to analyse the importance of Facebook, as a commonly used social networking site and its relevancy as a medium for introverts to voice out, interact, socialise and collaborate within the online society and WebSphere. In point of fact, an individual has the golden opportunity to adopt any online persona or identity they desire to portray in the online realm; that is anyone could portray themselves as someone totally different from who they are in their Read more [...]
Abstract This paper aims to demonstrate the bleak changes in peoples’ lives. These changes occurred because of the rise of influencer culture, these celebrity influencers affected every aspect of peoples’ lives. I’m arguing to create awareness to the issue, asking from people to be mindful of the goals of these influences and de code what their messages saying. The paper is backed up by scholarly research and supported by evidence from my own personal experiences and major stories Read more [...]
  Abstract September 2021, as the world battles against the coronavirus pandemic, the video-based social media platform TikTok reaches 1 million users worldwide, which represents a colossal growth for the Chinese company ByteDance Ltd (Ceci, 2022). TikTok has throughout the years evolved from a video sharing platform such as Vines and Musical.ly into a platform reflecting creativity, networked communities and advocacy. One community whose presence is often highlighted on TikTok is Read more [...]
Riya - Conference Paper Abstract:   With the rise of social media, businesses have shifted their marketing mannerisms to adhere to the changes of the times. Every business has its presence on multiple social media networking sites, and they effectively utilize those platforms to market, advertise, create brand awareness, and increase their sales. Marketing through social media platforms (such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, etc.) is known as social media marketing. However, Read more [...]
  Social media as a useful tool for young adults to express and shaping their identities online.   Stream: Identity and Online Advocacy   Abstract The purpose of this paper is to show the essential use of social media tools for the young adults to express and shape their identity. It shows how much the social media tools have been a great help for the young adults to express themselves freely as per their own self identity. And also by putting emphasize Read more [...]
Abstract: This paper offers an examination into ‘cancel culture’ and how it is creating a toxic and censored environment online. Looking at instances of the culture affecting one’s reputation, its creation of a mass mentality online, and how the result of its punishments can have larger ramifications than the problematic act that caused them, this paper seeks to show the harms and ineffectiveness ‘cancel culture’ has on online networks and individuals.   Introduction: The creation Read more [...]
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to discuss the adverse effects of online anonymity. While online anonymity is positively embraced by many of us, some have faced the dark side of it. Giving prominence to the concept of identity, I discuss the causes, effects and the results of one form of negative use of online anonymity, which is catfishing.   Keywords- catfishing, online anonymity, postmodern perspective, identity   Online anonymity has unarguably been one of the main Read more [...]
Abstract The purpose of this study is to examine the effects Instagram has on mental health issues such as anxiety, social comparison and self-esteem when influencers falsely present themselves on social media. Focusing on the stream of online social networks and identity, we discover how the role of social media The increasing use of Instagram has resulted in a growing number of mental health issues, impacting healthy relationships, eating disorders, social interaction and emotional and Read more [...]
Fashion influencers and their authentic online identities Abstract With the rise of online marketing and electronic word of mouth Instagram fashion influencers have become a vital part of advertising campaigns for fashion brands. Using authentic and trustworthy fashion influencers to promote brands to consumers has proven effective when it comes to marketing and often leads to increased sales. Fashion influencers build communities of followers by portraying an authentic online self Read more [...]
Abstract: This paper argues that YouTubers limit a child’s personal development of their identity through manipulative marketing techniques and playing on their vulnerability. As influencers grow in popularity and target their videos towards younger children it has become more important than ever to make sure this content is regulated, and parents need to know what their child is being influenced by. This paper looks at the case study of Jake Paul, a popular influencer with a young audience Read more [...]
Indigenous Memes_Conference Paper_PDF   ABSTRACT In 2016, Indigenous activists launched a Facebook page Blackfulla Revolution (BFR) to increase awareness about the impact of colonialism in past through to the present-day Australia. BFR produced and shared a set of memes to illustrate the discriminatory events of colonialism and to invite a wider community to gather online to show solidarity for Indigenous both past and present. Meme creation is one way to produce replicable and spreadable Read more [...]
Me 2.0: the ability for individuals to perform multiple selves online allows greater freedom than ever to explore their identity – at a cost. ABSTRACT This paper aims to examine the moral panic about the impact on individuals living increasingly inside online communities and social networks. I will argue that an inaccurate nostalgia has grown around perceived notions of an ideal past when living in a community supposedly afforded individuals a wealth of support and freedom. A closer Read more [...]
  The digital realm has given us an unlimited space and opportunities to share our interests and communicate with others who share the same interest, those who takes the lead to create contents for the wide audience are called “Internet influencer”. These influencers have their own communities, where content consumers and fans can communicate with each other, share their interests and express their support for the influencers. In 2016, a brand-new internet celebrity phenomenon called Read more [...]
Virtual livestreamers – also known as VTubers – are a recent hot topic among the livestreaming community. VTubers as a whole provide a wide range of topics for discussion, especially in relation to identity performance. Identity, as a concept is a notably fluid process, and as Jones and Krzyzanowski (2008) state, it can be “(re)constructed and (re)interpreted by actors in a multiplicity of ways” (p. 43). In this paper, I will be discussing the appeals of VTubers in relation to their Read more [...]
  Abstract This paper explores the effect Instagram has had on the modern-day teenager, and how their identities are being influenced by its features. Whilst Instagram’s original purpose was always to share and promote people, teenagers have used the apps interactive features to compare their own sense of self with that of their peers. Features such as photo sharing, filter options and the like button have each created their own means for influence on the teenage population. Photo Read more [...]
Abstract: The LGBTQIA+ community is often marginalised, both online and offline, but Social Network Sites (SNSs) can provide vital spaces for these users to find community, support, advocacy and practice identity, in a way the physical world cannot. However, notions of privacy and identity online are complex practices and SNSs have varying degrees of identity requirements while providing valuable connectivity. Platforms like Facebook have strict requirements that can impact the ability of Read more [...]
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to show how crucial the use of social media platforms is in regard to scaling online advocacy movements. This paper argues that social media platforms contribute largely to the scaling of movements through the facilitation of resource mobilisation, coalition building, and providing an accessible and effective method for advocacy movements to control the narrative. Social media is a vital tool in scaling online movements and the impacts are seen in both Read more [...]
Create Your Character: A Study of Identity Through Online Avatars Argument: Online identities, particularly in relation to online avatars, are integral to individuals in postmodern society in constructing, maintaining, and experimenting with their identity.   Abstract: This paper relates to the Identity and Online Advocacy stream but will be mainly focused on Identity. In this paper, it will be argued that technology, in particular the use of online video games, Read more [...]