#bodypositivity hashtag

[letsgroit]

Medical Logo and Brand Identity Design

► Check Complete Branding Design: https://www.behance.net/gallery/200964191/Dentalcare-Branding-Design-Medical-Corporate-Identity

[99orphans]

skinny shaming is still body shaming!!

i'm tired of people thinking it's okay to make fun of and make comments towards people just because they are closer to societal beauty standards. Everyone forgets that, as with any body type:

were born with this body type

it's not actually about how much we eat

no, just a bit more exercise isn't going to do it

commenting about our body shape isn't edifying, it's demeaning

calling anyone names doesn't make them feel good

the people who weren't born with this body type, most likely have another issue, and should be cared for, supported, and not further made to feel awful about themselves

i'm not trying to put myself on the same level as heavyset people that experience bodyshaming, i'm saying that it is just as okay to make fun of someone who is overweight, as it is someone who is underweight which is to say

it's not.

us thinfolk have grown a tolerance to it and we usually like to embrace it, because if we don't, we realize that everyone is just having fun at our expense. My entire psyche is based around this value of

"if i don't join in on making fun of me, i'm going to get more hurt."

i personally don't really care about getting made fun of anymore, because i was made to turn it into being a resident sad funny man, but you should all know that i was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and it largely stems from this issue.

People are people. Don't be a dick.

[shinbubu7856]

Tumblr: A Platform for Underrepresented Communities

Tumblr has now carved out a niche within the larger context, becoming a kind of “public space” for people who want to express themselves strongly but do not want to be judged and harassed. Public space, as Habermas describes it, is a space where people gather to exchange ideas and engage in political discussions (Kruse 2018). Popular social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram have a wide audience, but they have a weakness in that they are public, which leads to criticism and vilification. In contrast, Tumblr encourages users with similar interests to connect without interference from other parties. Another strength is that Tumblr allows for anonymity and creative freedom.

Tumblr began in 2007 and was the first social media site to shelter underrepresented communities such as LGBTQIA+ groups, feminists, and people of color (Keller 2019). In return, the platform afforded them anonymity, hashtagging, and reduced surveillance, creating a comfortable space where users could criticize political and social criticism. More recently, Tumblr has become a haven for feminist movements, reintroducing body positivity to #bodypositivity by allowing users to reclaim their bodies from social stigma (Griffin et al., 2022).

Tumblr also stands out when it comes to the creativity it offers, how users innovate the site and language to fit their expressive lifestyles (Keller 2019). The ability to reshare and create GIFs has allowed ideas to flow more naturally, creating aesthetic and activist communities and personalizing accounts. While some younger users have left Tumblr following the 2018 NSFW ban, its core user base remains extremely strong, providing a space that is well protected from economic and political pressures within smaller communities (Bruns & Highfield, 2023).

Tumblr will continue to evolve, and the platform will remain an important “public space” for underrepresented people and enable them to discuss social and political issues.

References

Bruns, A., & Highfield, T. (2015). Is Habermas on Twitter? The Routledge Companion to Social Media and Politics, 56–73. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315716299-5

Griffin, M., Bailey, K. A., & Lopez, K. J. (2022). #BodyPositive? A critical exploration of the body positive movement within physical cultures taking an intersectionality approach. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 4(908580). https://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2022.908580

Keller, J. (2019). “Oh, She’s a Tumblr Feminist”: Exploring the Platform Vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms. Social Media + Society, 5(3), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305119867442

Kruse, L. M., Norris, D. R., & Flinchum, J. R. (2017). Social Media as a Public Sphere? Politics on Social Media. The Sociological Quarterly, 59(1), 62–84. https://doi.org/10.1080/00380253.2017.1383143

[psdontgetdegrees]

Don’t Worry, I’m Still On My Learners… | Week 3: Tumblr Case Study

As a first time user of Tumblr, I would like to illustrate how easy this interface is to use! It’s actually pretty simple to start and get set-up. I found it really exciting to make an account on a social media site that I have never used before. It’s like a social media major’s christmas!

Hi, I’m “P’s Don’t Get Degrees”, and i’ll be explaining to you briefly what this is. I am enrolled in a Media and Communications Bachelor At Swinburne University, in Hawthorn, Melbourne. For one of my classes, as part of our assessment of knowledge, we have been tasked, as a class, to create a tumblr. And as part of the assessment, we must analyze and dissect each week's reading and display our knowledge in a short blog post on our page. Sounds pretty cool.

This is the first week, although the third? Confusing but it works out regardless. This is the beginning of a very cool story. I hope you enjoy it!

This weeks reading will be on Tumblr and a few case studies on

Required Readings: “Love the Skin You're In”

As a media industry, collectively, we still have a long way to go when it comes to broadening the concept of an ideal woman. We still “predominantly promote a narrow ideal”(Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022 P1) of what it means to be a beautiful woman, often discounting those with “higher weight”(Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022 P2). The idea however, that a few small creators could formulate a new trend through the use of social media, Tumblr to be exact, was exciting to a few women who didn’t fit the social norms of the western society. And thus the hashtag “#bodypositive”(Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022 P2) was created to fight back against the dehumanization that was placed on them.

Brave men and women adopted the “#bodypositivity”(Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022 P2) hashtag to “resist the fat stigma by promoting acceptance”(Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022 P6), which would grow the normalization of different shaped bodies. The use however on tumblr was a crucial point to the story, as it allowed users to spread content throughout the website, with no repercussions; these people weren’t shut out, censored or ostracized. Instead, users who utilized #bodypositivity were met with “a diverse and empowering feminist community”(Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022 P6). By being able to add blog-format written text, the posts with the empowering hashtag where seen not based on their follower count, but through siad hashtag, “allowing for a wider range of voices being heard”(Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022 P7, Cited from Renninger, BJ 2015)

Here are some links I think are relevant:

How to use tumblr: https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-tumblr-tips-users/

Body Positivity: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-body-positivity-4773402

References

Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022, ‘“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 & society, vol. ahead-of-print, no. ahead-of-print, Routledge, pp. 1–24.

Renninger, BJ 2015, ‘“Where I can be myself … where I can speak my mind” : Networked counterpublics in a polymedia environment’, New media & society, vol. 17, no. 9, SAGE Publications, London, England, pp. 1513–1529.

Thank you!

[mda20009digcom]

Week 3 : Digital Community - Tumblr

Is Blogging Still Relevant Today ?

In this week's post we will be diving into the blogging world. Blog previously known as 'weblog' is 'a frequently updated website, consisting of personal observations, excerpts from other sources, typically run by a single person. Blogs usually use hyperlinks to other sites ; an online journal or diary' (OED, 2003).

Social media platform 'Tumblr' is one of the most popular microblogging platforms used. Tumblr is ranked number 19 in social media sites in Australia. Tumblr has 3.7 million users, ahead of TikTok and reddit. I see Tumblr as a social media platform that allows people to express who they are without revealing to much about themselves., unlike other social media platforms Instagram and Facebook.

A safe space

Tumblr is not tied to the 'real name internet', providing a safe space for many marginalized groups. 'Tumblr served an important societal need by providing a safe space for trans people before, during and after transition, which was both a meaningful space for change and a supportive community' (Hamison, 2019).

Fun fact

Tumblr users don't need to follow each other to view their content, keeping their profiles hidden.

#Hashtags

Tumblr was one of the first social media platforms to use hashtags as a community building tool. Hashtags indicate topics or themes, they represent an important innovative in social media communication. The use of hashtags is powerful as it is participatory.

"The hashtag classifies messages, improves searchability and allows the organization to link messages to existing knowledge and action communities" (Saxton, 2015).

An extremely popular hashtag in the recent years is #bodypositive.

#bodypositive was developed from the body positivity movement across social media platforms, advocating acceptance for marginalized bodies and dismissal of the thin ideal. This hashtag provided exposure to such content that can be considered beneficial for a positive body image as it challenges and diversifies the concept of beauty (Cohen, 2019). This hashtag helps millions of people through identity development and can have positive effects, such as increased self-esteem and life satisfaction (Burrow & Rainone, 2017).

References

Chang, Y & Tang, L & Inagaki, Y 2014, ' What is Tumblr : A Statistical Overview and Consumption'. Research Gate, vol. 1, no. 16, pp. 1-10.

Choi, M & Cristol, D 2021, 'Digital citizenship with intersexuality lens: Towards participatory democracy driven digital citizenship education', Theory into Practice, pp. 1-11.

Hamison, O & Dame-Griff, A & Capello, E & Richter, Z 2021, 'Tumblr was a trans technology : the meaning importance, history and future of trans technologies', Taylor & Francis Online, vol. 21, no. 3, pp. 1-17.

[aiyshaxshinde]

Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart 🤍💫 Follow- @aiyshagram ✅ Follow- @aiyshagram ✅ Follow- @aiyshagram ✅ ------------------------------------------ Motivation☺️||Sensuality💋||NudeArt🍑||Reality🤭|| Attitude 😎|| Hurry up guys ! ✨✨Like || Comment || Share✨✨ ---------------------------------------- ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀.　　　　　　　　　　⠀⠀⠀✦ ⠀ ⠀　　　　　　　　　　　　　　⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀* ⠀⠀⠀.　　　　　　　　　　. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀✦⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀☄️ ⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀.　　　　　　　　　　　　　.　　　ﾟ .　　　　　　　　　　　　　. 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　✦ 　　　　　,　　　　　　　. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀☀️ 　　　　　　*　　　　　　　　　　　. .　　　　　　　　　　　　　. 　　✦⠀　   　　　,　　　　　　　　　* 　　　　　⠀　　　　⠀　　, ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀.　　　　　 　　⠀　　　⠀.　 　　˚　　　⠀　⠀  　　,　　　　　　. 　　　　　　　　　　　　　. 　　　　　　*⠀　　⠀  　　　　　⠀✦⠀　 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　. 　　　　.　　　　.　　　⠀🌕 　　　　　　　　　　　. 　　　　　　　🚀 　　　˚　　　　　　　　ﾟ　　　　　. 　.⠀　　🌎⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀‍⠀, 　　　*　　⠀. 　　　　　.　　　　　　　　　　⠀✦ 　˚　　　　　　　　　　　　　　* .⠀ 　　　　　　　　　　.　　　　　　　　. 　　　　　✦⠀　   　　　,　　    🛸 ⠀　　 .　　　　　 　　⠀　　　. 　　　˚　　　⠀　⠀ 　　　　　　　　　　　, Hashtags : . #photooftheday #painting #illustration #photo #nudeartmodel #portraitphotography #love #artistsoninstagram #shots #sensualart #instagood #woman #photoshoot #nudedrawing #bodypositive #artoftheday #nudepainting #photographer #impliednude #picoftheday #boudoirinspiration #digitalart #bodyart #beautiful #fineartphotography #blackandwhitephotography #nudemodels #artmodel #figurativeart (at Taj Bekal Resort & Spa, Kerala) https://www.instagram.com/p/Coo0YpYve5z/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[tungchi2510]

Tumblr: A Digital Sanctuary for Marginalized Voices

In a world dominated by polished and algorithm-driven social media platforms, Tumblr stands as a rare sanctuary for self-expression and community building. With its inclusivity and creative freedom, Tumblr has been a critical space for marginalized voices, especially LGBTQIA+ individuals (Are et al., 2024). By enabling authentic interactions and fostering open dialogue, the platform amplifies underrepresented narratives that struggle to find space elsewhere.

Anonymity and Empowerment Tumblr’s approach to pseudonymous profiles offers freedom from the pressures of real-world identities. This feature has been instrumental in empowering users to explore and express themselves without fear of judgment or harassment. The platform’s impact is evident in movements like #ItGetsBetter, which supports LGBTQIA+ youth facing discrimination. Users anonymously shared personal stories of resilience, creating a ripple effect of hope for others experiencing similar struggles. This anonymity provided a safe space for vulnerable individuals to connect and find solidarity, demonstrating Tumblr’s unique role in fostering understanding and community.

The Rise of Hashtag Movements Tumblr was pivotal in the evolution of hashtags as tools for activism and collective identity (McCracken, 2017). Movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #BodyPositivity flourished on the platform, combining art, testimonials, and educational content to challenge societal norms. For example, #BodyPositivity on Tumblr celebrated diverse body types while dismantling harmful stereotypes. The openness of the platform allowed creators to drive conversations that encouraged self-acceptance and advocated for inclusivity. Unlike algorithmic platforms, Tumblr enabled users to organically discover and engage with content, nurturing meaningful connections.

Policy Changes and Their Impact In 2018, Tumblr banned NSFW content to align with corporate interests, resulting in significant backlash. The decision disproportionately affected creators who used the platform to advocate for body positivity and sex education. This policy shift led to a sharp decline in user engagement, particularly among younger demographics (Paasonen et al., 2019). Many creators felt erased, as Tumblr’s policy changes undermined the very values of freedom and inclusivity it once championed.

A Public Sphere for Thoughtful Discourse Tumblr aligns closely with the concept of a public sphere, where individuals exchange ideas without institutional interference (Kruse et al., 2017). The platform’s reverse-chronological feed promotes authentic engagement over algorithmic manipulation. Additionally, reduced surveillance, such as the absence of visible timestamps or online statuses, fosters genuine exploration and connection. This design supports a unique environment for thoughtful discourse, making Tumblr a vital space for marginalized voices.

References

Are, C., Talbot, C., & Briggs, P. (2024). Social media affordances of LGBTQIA+ expression and community formation. Convergence: The International Journal of Research into New Media Technologies. https://doi.org/10.1177/13548565241296628

Kruse, L. M., Norris, D. R., & Flinchum, J. R. (2017). Social Media as a Public Sphere? Politics on Social Media. The Sociological Quarterly, 59(1), 62–84. https://doi.org/10.1080/00380253.2017.1383143

McCracken, A. (2017). Tumblr Youth Subcultures and Media Engagement. Cinema Journal, 57(1), 151–161. https://www.jstor.org/stable/44867867

Paasonen, S., Jarrett, K., & Light, B. (2019). NSFW : sex, humor, and risk in social media. The Mit Press.

#MDA20009 #Week3

[darkmaga-returns]

Documenting the meatiest, juiciest cuts of “fat acceptance” propaganda from corporate and social media.

‘Muh free airline seat’ fat activist gets stuck in airport revolving door, decries fatphobia on TikTok

As reported on diligently by me, Jae'lynn Chaney ascended to quasi-TikTok stardom last year when she demanded airlines give free seats to her and all fellow members of her human-walrus hybrid sub-species.

Related: 'Plus-Size' TikTok Butterball's Self-Indulgent 'Travel Tips' for Obese Airline Passengers

Via Daily Mail (emphasis added):

“A polyamorous plus-sized influencer has hit back after trolls accused her of claiming obesity was a disability. Jae'lynn Chaney, 27, posted a video in response to a comment that was made under one of her videos that said: 'Obesity is not a disability.'… Jae'lynn's video came after she detailed a 'distressing' experience she had at the Chicago O'Hare Airport as a wheelchair user in another clip. 'I faced a significant challenge when trying to get to baggage claim,' she wrote in that TikTok video, showing a clip of herself in a wheelchair being pushed down the airbridge from the plane to the terminal. 'The only option was to go through a revolving door,' she continued. 'We pressed the button to slow it down for people with disabilities, but as we entered we got stuck.' Jae'lynn continued saying she was 'claustrophobic' and began to panic. '[I was] frantically motioning to the staff for help,' she recalled. 'They just stared at me, offering no assistance.' According to the influencer, someone passing by noticed her struggle and tried to help, but the airport staff remained 'unresponsive.' 'This was my second terrible experience at O'Hare during just one trip,' she claimed. Jae'lynn called the experience 'frustrating' and 'dehumanizing,' using the hashtag 'fat and disabled' on her video.”

[junngnday]

The book "Love the Skin You're In: Selfies and Tumblr's Hashtag #Bodypositive" by Anne Reif, Insa Miller, and Monika Taddicken explores the phenomenon of the body positivity movement, particularly through the lens of selfies on Tumblr. It analyzes how individuals, especially women, use the hashtag #bodypositive to portray themselves outside the confines of traditional beauty standards. The research focuses on the ways users present themselves in these selfies and how they challenge societal norms around beauty and body image.

The authors highlight the importance of social media platforms, like Tumblr, as spaces where users can redefine body image ideals and promote self-acceptance. This is part of a broader cultural shift that resists stereotypical portrayals of beauty. The study also examines audience reactions to these posts, illustrating the supportive community formed around this movement, which encourages a diverse and more inclusive representation of bodies.

This book contributes to discussions on digital identity, self-representation, and the power of social media in shaping societal attitudes.

References

Braunschweig, T. U. (2015). Dr. Anne Reif. Tu-Braunschweig.de. https://www.tu-braunschweig.de/en/ifkw/team/alumni/anne-reif

Braunschweig, T. U. (2018). #bodypositive. Tu-Braunschweig.de. https://www.tu-braunschweig.de/en/ifkw/bodypositive

Reif, A., Miller, I., & Taddicken, M. (2022). “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). https://doi.org/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442

Available at:

[takeristory]

Embracing Diversity: The Body Positive Movement on Tumblr

In recent years, the body positive movement has gained significant traction across social media platforms, particularly on Tumblr. This platform has historically served as a space for diverse self-expressions and discussions surrounding body image and acceptance. Utilizing the hashtag #bodypositive, individuals share selfies that celebrate their bodies, regardless of societal beauty standards.

The research conducted by Reif, Miller, and Taddicken (2022) sheds light on the complexities of self-presentation within this movement. They analyzed 300 selfies posted on Tumblr in 2017 using the #bodypositive hashtag. Surprisingly, while there was a noted intent to promote diversity, the images predominantly featured young, white women of average weight. This raises questions about the true inclusivity of the body positive movement and highlights a potential shift towards a narrower definition of beauty, which may inadvertently reflect the traditional ideals it aims to challenge.

Despite these findings, the narratives accompanying these selfies often convey powerful messages of self-acceptance and empowerment. For instance, one user shared, “I have (finally) truly learned to love myself. You should too.” Such affirmations serve to foster a sense of community and support, encouraging others to embrace their bodies as they are. Many posts focus on the journey toward self-love, emphasizing that while it can be challenging, it's essential to appreciate one’s individuality and imperfections.

Moreover, the presence of hashtags like #effyourbeautystandards and #curvygirl further amplifies discussions around body diversity, challenging the mainstream ideals that often exclude marginalized bodies. However, the movement is not without its critiques. Some argue that the focus on body image, even in a positive light, can lead to self-objectification, suggesting a need for a broader conversation around body neutrality, which shifts the focus away from appearance altogether and emphasizes the body’s functionality.

In conclusion, while the body positive movement on Tumblr has created a vital space for dialogue around self-acceptance and diversity, there remains a need for continuous reflection on the representations that dominate these discussions. As we navigate these complexities, it’s crucial to champion not only body positivity but also body neutrality, recognizing that every body deserves love and acceptance without the pressure of conforming to societal standards.

References

Reif, A., Miller, I., & Taddicken, M. (2022). “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.

[marisdinh]

Week 3: Discovering Tumblr: A Whimsical World of Diversity and Self-Expression! 🌈

Welcome, fellow explorers! Today, we’re diving into the enchanting world of Tumblr. More than just a platform for sharing images and content, Tumblr is a vibrant "candy factory" for those seeking connection, creativity, and self-expression. Ready to uncover its unique role in building online communities? Let’s go!

1. Tumblr: A Safe Haven for Diversity

Picture this: you step into Tumblr, and instantly feel a warm embrace of inclusivity. Unlike many social media platforms, Tumblr lets you be anonymous, allowing freedom in sharing your personal stories and opinions. Jessalyn Keller (2019) captures this perfectly, stating that many, especially teenagers and LGBTQ+ folks, flock to Tumblr because they don’t fear judgment. “Nobody knows who anybody is”—that’s the magic of Tumblr! (Keller, 2019, p. 8)

2. Willy Wonka and the Magic of Memes

Let’s not forget the iconic Willy Wonka meme! This delightful expression from the film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) reminds newcomers to familiarize themselves with Tumblr’s quirky language and rules. Just like Wonka’s factory, Tumblr is a whimsical place where different people unite over shared passions, creating a vibrant atmosphere of creativity and dialogue ( Mc Cracken, 2020).

3. The #BodyPositive Movement: Embracing All Bodies

One of the shining stars on Tumblr is the #bodypositive movement. 🌟 This hashtag empowers individuals to share their journeys of self-acceptance and body diversity (Reif, Miller & Taddicken, 2022). Originating from those who feel marginalized by traditional beauty standards, #bodypositive celebrates every shape and size. It’s a beautiful reminder that confidence is what truly shines! 💖

4. A Home for Marginalized Voices

From 2007 to 2018, Tumblr became a safe haven for many disenfranchised groups, including youth, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities (Reif, Miller & Taddicken, 2022). The platform has fostered critical discussions around Black feminist theory, non-binary identity, and more. Tumblr isn’t just about sharing content; it’s a vibrant forum for voices that matter.

5. Challenges Ahead

Of course, Tumblr isn’t without its challenges. 🚧 There have been concerns regarding safety and navigation, making it tricky for some to engage. But despite these hurdles, Tumblr’s strength lies in its ability to build community—a place where you can find support and share resources.

Join the Conversation!

Now it’s your turn! Do you feel that Tumblr is a safe space for self-expression? What’s your favorite aspect of the platform? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 💬👇

References

Keller, J. (2019). Oh She’s a Tumblr Feminist: Exploring the Platform Vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms. Social Media + Society, 5(3), 1-12.

Reif, A., Miller, I., & Taddicken, M. (2022). 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.

McCracken, A. (2020). A Tumblr Book: Platform and Cultures.

[jewy-gum]

🌐 Week Three: Digital Communities & Tumblr ✨

Welcome to Week Three, where we dive into the fascinating world of digital communities on Tumblr! 🌟 Tumblr isn’t just a platform, it’s a cultural space where online identities, activism, and creative expressions converge. Whether you’re curating a mood board or leading a feminist movement, Tumblr's unique community dynamics make it a key player in shaping digital culture.

🔗 The Power of Hashtags & Movements

Hashtags like #BodyPositive have revolutionized the way we discuss self-image and inclusivity. Reif et al. (2022) highlight that the #BodyPositive hashtag on Tumblr allows women to share diverse body images, encouraging self-acceptance over unrealistic beauty standards (Reif et al. 2022). However, the challenge remains in balancing self-expression with self-objectification, as social media often pressures users to conform to traditional beauty ideals.

Tumblr's history as a subcultural hub was seriously disrupted when it implemented its controversial NSFW content ban in 2018. Users lost not only artistic and expressive freedom but also entire communities that thrived in the platform’s lenient environment (Pilipets & Paasonen 2022). The backlash, seen through memes, screenshots, and GIFs, turned the issue into an emblem of algorithmic failure and censorship. Users responded by creating memes mocking the algorithm, uploading innocent images (like pictures of cats) that were flagged as inappropriate. This resulted in what has become known as the "Tumblr Purge."

✊ Activism & Feminism

Digital communities on Tumblr are also integral to online activism, with movements like Tumblr Feminism gaining ground through creative posts, memes, and hashtags. Keller (2019) explores how teenage girls use Tumblr to voice their feminist critiques, creating a distinctive vernacular that reflects the platform’s creative affordances (Keller 2019). Tumblr offers an inclusive space for young feminists to challenge gender norms and express their ideas freely.

Yet, while Tumblr is a great space for activism, it has its limitations as a platform for political discourse. Kruse, Norris, and Flinchum (2018) note that social media, including Tumblr, often falls short of Habermas’s ideal public sphere, which is meant to foster democratic debate. Instead, users tend to seek like-minded communities, creating echo chambers where diverse perspectives are often missing (Kruse et al. 2018).

🎭 Memes, GIFs, and Digital Resistance

Want to make this week’s post even more engaging? Why not throw in a meme or GIF that embodies the iconic Tumblr humor or critique? For instance, a "This post has been flagged as inappropriate" meme or a simple photo of a cat ironically labeled as NSFW (Pilipets & Paasonen 2022). These images not only poke fun at Tumblr’s censorship but also engage users in a visual language that resonates deeply within the community. Below is an example of a meme structure:

Whether you’re here for the memes, the activism, or the digital culture, Tumblr remains a vital space for creativity, self-expression, and connection.

References

Keller, J 2019, ‘Oh, She’s a Tumblr Feminist’: Exploring the Platform Vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms’, Social Media + Society, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 1-11, <https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305119867442>. 

Kruse, LM, Norris, DR & Flinchum, JR 2018, ‘Social Media as a Public Sphere? Politics on Social Media’, The Sociological Quarterly, vol. 59, no. 1, pp. 62-84, <https://doi.org/10.1080/00380253.2017.1383143>. 

Pilipets, E & Paasonen, S 2022, ‘Nipples, memes, and algorithmic failure: NSFW critique of Tumblr censorship’, New Media & Society, vol. 24, no. 6, pp. 1459–1480, <https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444820979280>. 

Reif, A, Miller, I & Taddicken, M 2022, ‘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, <https://doi.org/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442>. 

[formaianhassignment]

WEEK 3: Digital Community: Tumblr Case Study

In the week 3 unit, Tumblr serves as an interesting case study to explore the concept of the public sphere within digital spaces. The platform is known for fostering niche communities and providing a space where users can share content freely, with features such as anonymity, hashtag usage, and creative freedom (Renninger 2015). Tumblr’s loose restrictions (prior to 2018) and its non-reliance on real names have made it a haven for marginalized groups, particularly LGBTQ+ communities, to express themselves without fear of judgment or surveillance (Cavalcante 2018). These characteristics of Tumblr highlight its role in shaping micro-publics or smaller, overlapping digital communities, which challenge the traditional idea of a singular public sphere (Papacharissi 2010).

Hashtag activism is one of the key ways Tumblr has contributed to these digital communities. The hashtag #bodypositive, for instance, has played an important role in promoting feminist discourse around body image. According to Cohen et al. (2019), the body positivity movement aims to counteract the harmful effects of narrow beauty standards perpetuated by mainstream media (Cohen et al. 2019). While platforms like Instagram and TikTok have also engaged with this movement, Tumblr stands out for its relatively uncensored environment before its policy changes in 2018. Researchers have noted that, despite its empowering potential, the #bodypositive movement still struggles with the tendency to reflect traditional beauty norms, such as an overrepresentation of white, thin women (Gibson 2017).

The interaction between platform affordances and user behavior is critical in understanding how these digital spaces influence societal norms. Tumblr’s design, which allows for the anonymous sharing of content, played a pivotal role in creating an empowering space for feminist and body-positive movements. However, platforms that promote diversity and inclusivity can still reflect larger societal trends, including self-objectification and the reinforcement of hegemonic beauty standards (Tiidenberg & Van Der Nagel 2020).

In summary, Tumblr represents a crucial digital community where marginalized voices can engage in meaningful discourse. However, while platforms like Tumblr enable a certain level of freedom and creativity, they are not entirely free from societal pressures that shape user behavior. The case of #bodypositive highlights how digital communities can both challenge and replicate existing norms.

References:

Cavalcante, A 2018, “Tumbling into queer utopias and vortexes: experiences of LGBTQ social media users on Tumblr,” Journal of Homosexuality, vol. 66, no. 12, pp. 1715–1735, viewed <https://doi.org/10.1080/00918369.2018.1511131>.

Cohen, R, Irwin, L, Newton-John, T & Slater, A 2019, “#bodypositivity: A content analysis of body positive accounts on Instagram,” Body Image, vol. 29, pp. 47–57, viewed <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2019.02.007>.

Darwin, H 2018, “Body Positivity Movement: Feminist Progress?,” ResearchGate, viewed <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325429274_Body_Positivity_Movement_Feminist_Progress>.

Papacharissi, Z 2010, A Private Sphere: Democracy in a Digital Age, Polity.

Renninger, BJ 2014, “‘Where I can be myself … where I can speak my mind’ : Networked counterpublics in a polymedia environment,” New Media & Society, vol. 17, no. 9, pp. 1513–1529, viewed <https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444814530095>.

Tiidenberg, K & Van Der Nagel, E 2020, “Sex and Social Media,” Emerald Publishing Limited eBooks, viewed <https://doi.org/10.1108/9781839094064>.

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Embracing Self-Love: The Power of the #BodyPositive Movement on Tumblr

In a world dominated by unrealistic beauty standards, the #bodypositive movement on platforms like Tumblr has emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment for many women. A recent study analyzing 300 selfies shared under this hashtag reveals the profound impact of self-acceptance and authenticity in self-presentation. The findings highlight that the majority of posts focus on themes of self-acceptance, with users openly discussing their struggles and triumphs in embracing their bodies (Reif et al., 2022) 

The study found that while self-improvement was mentioned, it was often framed within the context of self-acceptance. This duality reflects a growing awareness among users that true beauty lies not in conforming to societal expectations but in celebrating one’s unique identity. Many blog descriptions and accompanying texts convey a positive and empowering tone, encouraging others to embrace their bodies, regardless of size or shape. For instance, users share their journeys of self-discovery, often expressing vulnerability and honesty about their experiences with body image (Cash, 2004).

Moreover, the research indicates that the #bodypositive community fosters a supportive environment where women can connect and uplift one another. Although user reactions varied, the overwhelming majority of comments were positive, reinforcing the notion that this online space is dedicated to encouragement and acceptance (Cwynar-Horta, 2016). However, it is essential to acknowledge the potential risks of self-objectification, as some users may still face negative feedback or sexualization (Duffy & Hund, 2019).

As the landscape of social media continues to evolve, the #bodypositive movement serves as a reminder of the importance of self-love and acceptance. By sharing their stories and embracing their bodies, women are not only challenging societal norms but also creating a more inclusive and supportive community. This movement is a testament to the power of authenticity in fostering self-acceptance and promoting a healthier dialogue around body image (Tylka, 2012).

Reference:

Reif, A., Miller, I., & Taddicken, M. (2022). Love the Skin You’re In: Selfies and Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive. Mass Communication and Society. https://doi.org/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442 2

Cash, T. F. (2004). Body Image: A Handbook of Theory, Research, and Clinical Practice. Guilford Press.

Tylka, T. L. (2012). Positive Body Image: A Key to the Prevention of Eating Disorders. Eating Disorders, 20(2), 130-143.

Cwynar-Horta, J. (2016). The Body Positive: Feminism, Social Media, and the Politics of Representation. Feminist Media Studies, 16(6), 929-943.

Duffy, B. E., & Hund, E. (2019). Not Just a Pretty Face: The Impact of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Perception.

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Week 3: Hashtags - a powerful feature that helps engage digital communities on Tumblr.

Hashtags are now being used widely on many different platforms, especially Tumblr, which is considered one of the first social media sites to use hashtags to create a community.

According to Sprout Social, hashtags are defined as words and numbers with the # symbol in front that can classify and track content on social media (2024). This means that adding a # symbol in front of a keyword related to the topic allows users to link their posts to align with the same topic content (Rauschnabel, Sheldon & Herzfeldt, p. 473).

Since it was created and became an indispensable part of the platform, hashtags have played an essential role in developing and enhancing user experience:

1. Discover a variety of content

Hashtags can assist users in discovering more content that relates to their interests. Ta’amneh and Al-Ghazo assumed in their article that hashtag activism effectively garners attention and raises awareness for many important issues (2021, p. 12). Therefore, numerous new hashtags are emerging and gaining traction among users.

2. Build and engage in a community

With others who share their interests, users can engage and form new communities. This is probably because, on Tumblr, hashtags give users a more intimate way to strategically express their ideas, feelings, and opinions—even when they write in areas of the platform that they are aware are public (Brett & Maslen 2021, p. 12). When movements are accompanied by hashtags, they can grow virally among social media users and naturally reach like-minded people and organisations (Saxton et al. 2015, p. 2).

3. Trend tracking

When hashtags are created and established in communities, they will suddenly become a trend that attracts a lot of attention. On social media, people frequently follow and talk about popular subjects. This apparent behavioural pattern is being examined, along with the recently acquired knowledge of machine learning, in this seemingly fascinating field of study (Shams, Hoosain & Noori 2020). 

One of the key hashtags used effectively by a female community on Tumblr is #bodypositive. This hashtag was made to increase awareness of the variety of femininity and body types. These communities have the power to subvert the conventional notion of beauty and give more people a sense of acceptance and beauty (Reif, Miller and Taddicken 2022, p. 4-5). Due to its anonymity feature, Tumblr has become a preferred choice for numerous adolescent feminists (Keller 2019, p. 7), serving as a stage for them to reveal their individuality and share their perspectives. As a result, this phenomenon has attracted a lot of attention from female users who were previously self-conscious, encouraging them to be more self-assured and not to be flaunt their attractive appearance on social net working sites.

#bodypositive aligns with some other hashtags that also relate to the same content

In conclusion, hashtags have a significant impact on connecting people with similar ideas or interests, helping them find each other, and gradually forming various digital communities. The emergence of these communities on platforms like Tumblr appears to bridge the gap between individuals, bringing them closer and enhancing their comfort while using social networks.

References:

Brett, I. and Maslen, S. (2021) ‘Stage whispering: Tumblr hashtags beyond categorization’, Social Media + Society, 7(3), p. 205630512110321. doi:10.1177/20563051211032138.

Hashtags: What they are and how to use them effectively (2024) Sprout Social. https://sproutsocial.com/insights/what-is-hashtagging/

Keller, J. (2019) ‘“oh, she’s a Tumblr feminist”: Exploring the platform vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms’, Social Media + Society, 5(3), p. 205630511986744. doi:10.1177/2056305119867442.

Rauschnabel, P.A., Sheldon, P. and Herzfeldt, E. (2019) ‘What motivates users to Hashtag on social media?’, Psychology & Marketing, 36(5), pp. 473–488. doi:10.1002/mar.21191.

Reif, A., Miller, I. and Taddicken, M. (2022) ‘“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), pp. 1038–1061. doi:10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442.

Saxton, G.D. et al. (2015) ‘#advocatingforchange: The strategic use of hashtags in social media advocacy’, Advances in Social Work, 16(1), pp. 154–169. doi:10.18060/17952.

Shams, M.B., Hossain, Md.J. and Noori, S.R. (2020) ‘A time series analysis of trends with Twitter hashtags using LSTM’, 2020 11th International Conference on Computing, Communication and Networking Technologies (ICCCNT), pp. 1–6. doi:10.1109/icccnt49239.2020.9225349.

Ta’amneh, I.M. and Al-Ghazo, A. (2021) ‘The importance of using hashtags on raising awareness about social issues’, International Journal of Learning and Development, 11(4), p. 10. doi:10.5296/ijld.v11i4.19139.