#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

[selflovinn]

i’ve really been feelin myself lately 👹

[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.

[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=

[tramngo]

"Love the Skin You're In": A Dive into #BodyPositive on Tumblr

In a society filled with unattainable beauty standards and polished perfection, the body positivity movement serves as a light of hope, challenging conventions while appreciating differences. But where can this movement actually thrive? This blog will explore the colorful weave of body positivity on Tumblr, a digital safety where people come together under the hashtag #bodypositive to redefine beauty on their own terms.

A Digital Revolution of Self-Love

The internet environment provides powerful feminist spaces through hashtags, boosting confidence and challenging conventional beauty norms. #Bodypositive epitomizes this trend, which promotes self-empowerment and rejects limited beauty standards (Reif, Miller & Taddicken 2022). However, worries remain about self-objectification and sexualization in selfie culture.

Inspiring Diversity: Self-Presentation on Tumblr

In the colorful tapestry of Tumblr, the #bodypositive hashtag serves as a beacon of inclusivity and self-expression (Gibson 2017). Here, individuals of all backgrounds and identities converge to challenge societal norms and celebrate the beauty of diversity. 

This movement, which gained momentum as early as 2012, has become a cornerstone of digital activism, fostering acceptance, empowerment, and a sense of belonging within the so-called Fatosphere (Meleo-Erwin 2011). By sharing their stories and selfies under hashtags like #effyourbeautystandards and #beautybeyondsize, users resist the fat stigma, promoting acceptance and reframing societal constructs of beauty and body image. It's a digital revolution fueled by authenticity and solidarity, where every post is a testament to the power of self-love and collective action (Afful & Ricciardelli 2015).

However, despite its progressive aims, the body-positive movement is not without criticism. Engagement with body-related hashtags may unintentionally prolong self-objectification and encourage postfeminist ideas about self-improvement via looks (Sastre 2014). Furthermore, the depiction in these hashtags frequently favors normative and conventionally beautiful bodies, excluding people who do not meet these restricted criteria.

2. Exploring Community Dynamics: Reactions and Engagement

In Tumblr's thriving digital environment, the #bodypositive movement generates conversations, promotes connections, and inspires change (Caso et al. 2020). As users share their selfies and stories under this empowering hashtag, the platform becomes a melting pot of diverse perspectives and experiences. But what truly sets Tumblr apart is its unique community dynamics. Unlike other social media platforms where popularity often dictates visibility, Tumblr offers a level playing field. Here, every post, regardless of the number of followers or reactions, has the potential to resonate and spark meaningful interactions.

User engagement on Tumblr goes beyond mere likes and comments; it's about building connections and amplifying voices. Through reblogs and comments, users not only express solidarity but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding body positivity. This collective interaction creates a ripple effect, spreading messages of self-love and acceptance far and wide (Solomon & Kurtz-Costes 2017). In this space, every voice matters, and every contribution adds to the rich tapestry of the #bodypositive movement.

Celebrate Your Unique Beauty

The #bodypositive movement on Tumblr is more than just a trend—it's a powerful community of individuals redefining beauty standards and embracing self-love. In a digital landscape often dominated by unrealistic ideals, this vibrant space offers a refreshing alternative where diversity is celebrated and authenticity reigns supreme. By sharing stories and supporting each other, users are not only promoting acceptance but also sparking a revolution in how we perceive our bodies.

So, join the conversation, celebrate your uniqueness, and love the skin you’re in. Because on Tumblr, and in life, your story matters, and your voice can inspire change.

Reference list

Afful, A & Ricciardelli, R 2015, ‘Shaping the online fat acceptance movement: talking about body image and beauty standards’, Journal of Gender Studies, vol. 24, no. 4, pp. 453–472.

Caso, D, Schettino, G, Fabbricatore, R & Conner, M 2020, ‘“Change my selfie”: Relationships between self‐objectification and selfie‐behavior in young Italian women’, Journal of Applied Social Psychology, vol. 50, no. 9.

Gibson, M 2017, ‘Single post | website’, website, Home | YoursTruelyMelly, viewed <https://yourstruelymelly.wixsite.com/website/single-post/2017/07/06/Body-Positivity-Creating-a-Space-for-the-Representation-of-Marginalized-Bodies>.

Meleo-Erwin, ZC 2010, ‘“A beautiful show of strength”: Weight loss and the fat activist self’, Health: An Interdisciplinary Journal for the Social Study of Health, Illness and Medicine, vol. 15, no. 2, pp. 188–205.

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, vol. 26, no. 6.

Sastre, A 2014, ‘Towards a Radical Body Positive’, Feminist Media Studies, vol. 14, no. 6, pp. 929–943, viewed <https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14680777.2014.883420>.

Solomon, HE & Kurtz-Costes, B 2017, ‘Media’s Influence on Perceptions of Trans Women’, Sexuality Research and Social Policy, vol. 15, no. 1, pp. 34–47.

[long121203]

Week 3: Digital Community: Tumblr Case Study

Self-Image and Self-Acceptance: A Deeper Dive into the #bodypositive Movement on Tumblr

The #bodypositive movement on Tumblr, while offering a supportive space for women to challenge beauty standards and promote self-acceptance (Miguel, 2016)., revealed intricate nuances in the realm of self-image and self-acceptance. Let's delve into these two crucial aspects:

Self-Image:

Self-image, the perception we hold about ourselves, is deeply intertwined with body image, the way we view our physical appearance. The #bodypositive movement aims to foster a positive self-image by encouraging women to embrace their bodies, regardless of societal norms.

The Study's Insights:

Limited Body Diversity: Despite the movement's emphasis on inclusivity, the study's sample primarily consisted of young, white, and average-weight women. This lack of diversity suggests that the movement's reach might not be as inclusive as it aims to be.

Stereotypical Beauty Practices: The prevalence of stereotypical feminine poses in the selfies raises concerns about self-objectification, where individuals view themselves as objects to be evaluated by others. This continued adherence to certain beauty ideals suggests that the movement might not fully challenge the underlying societal pressures.

Mixed User Reactions: While user comments were generally positive and supportive, some instances of sexualization indicate that the movement might not fully address the issue of objectification. This highlights the complexity of online interactions and the need for ongoing discussions about healthy body image.

Self-Acceptance:

Self-acceptance, a key tenet of the #bodypositive movement, involves embracing oneself without judgment, regardless of flaws or perceived imperfections. It's about valuing oneself, not just based on physical appearance.

The Study's Insights:

Focus on Self-Acceptance: The selfies and accompanying texts often emphasized self-acceptance, encouraging women to love and appreciate their bodies. This positive focus is a core strength of the movement.

Pressure to Love One's Body Unconditionally: While self-acceptance is crucial, the emphasis might inadvertently create pressure to love one's body without any reservations. This could lead to unrealistic expectations and hinder genuine self-acceptance.

Conclusion

The #bodypositive movement on Tumblr offered a complex space for self-acceptance and challenging beauty standards. While it made strides in promoting positive self-image, it also revealed the challenges of dismantling societal beauty norms. Body neutrality presents an intriguing alternative, moving beyond aesthetics and embracing the body's inherent value. Further research is essential to understand the evolving nature of online body image communities and their impact on self-perception.

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, vol. 26, no. 6.

Miguel, C. (2016). Visual intimacy on social media: From selfies to the co-construction of intimacies through shared pictures. Social Media + Society, 2(2), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305116641705 OED Online. (2021). “Selfie, n”. Oxford University Press

[yukilim0301]

Social media and Tumblr as digital communities

Week 3

Social media has grown to be a major and influential force in today's society, influencing interactions with others, communication, as well as knowledge consumption. It has completely changed the way we communicate with one another, keeping up with the latest news, and showcase ourselves to the outside world. Especially for teenage girls, Tumblr and other similar platforms have a big influence on activism and public discussion. Understanding the importance of social media platforms and blogging requires an awareness of the "public sphere" (Segura, 2018).  These areas foster communication and interaction, creating "micro publics"—small communities interacting through comments, hashtags as well as blogging—which enhances online discussion (Segura, 2018). In addition, different communication norms and styles specific to each social media platform exist; they are commonly referred to as "platform vernaculars" (Keller, 2019).  Opportunities for everyone to participate in the digital public sphere are provided by these platforms, but they also present barriers including social media literacy, economic inequality, surveillance, and biases caused by algorithms that can limit access and affect participation dynamics.

Stereotypes around teenage girls being powerless victims of social media have been questioned by studying what they've gone through as teenage girls involved in online feminist activism. Rather, they are presented as powerful, wise, and deliberate users who use these advancements with agency and purpose.

Hashtags such as #bodypositive which was discussed in the 2022 study "Love the Skin You're In" by Anne Reif, Insa Miller, and Monika Taddicken (Anne Reif, 2022) . It act as a powerful catalysts for societal change by encouraging conversations on accepting oneself and loving oneself.  Individuals on Tumblr use hashtags like these to promote body diversity, question standard beauty standards, and share inspiring photos. These hashtags support positive body image messages and self-acceptance, which furthers talks about diversity and self-worth. In conclusion, this thorough examination emphasises how activism, public discussion, and feminist critique are shaped by websites such as Tumblr, especially when viewed through the experiences of teenage girls. It highlights the rise of micro publics, the impact of platform vernaculars, and the continuous difficulties in creating a secure and welcoming digital public space.

References:

Keller, J. (2019, August 14). “oh, she’s a Tumblr feminist”: Exploring the platform vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms. mediastudies.press. https://www.mediastudies.press/pub/keller-tumblr/release/2

María José Segura. (2018). Social media as the new public sphere. Contemporary Threats to Human Rights in the Online Public Sphere. https://repository.gchumanrights.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/40cba5a3-5fdf-4256-8f16-a4903059ad0a/content

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

[huixin0707]

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

[yeohchernyeong]

Week 3 Reality TV Case Study

In today’s digital age, social media platforms have become important spaces for personal expression, community connection, and challenging social norms(Anne,2022). The strategic use of platforms such as Twitter, Facebook and Tumblr offers unique opportunities to engage in feminist politics and shape the issues and types of politics on the platform(Jessalynn,2019). For example, the #bodypositive movement on Tumblr aims to promote self-acceptance, challenge traditional beauty standards, and create a supportive environment for people of all body types(Anne,2022)

.

Twitter, with its limited characters and hashtags, provides a space for the rapid dissemination of feminist messages and promotes relevant conversations. Facebook, which is used more for connecting with family and friends, is generally more conservative, causing women to be more cautious about the type of content they share. The design of the platform and the dynamics of the network can influence the level of social privacy and interaction control.(Jessalynn,2019)

Known for its anonymity and visual content, Tumblr provides a unique space for feminist discourse. The deep, disorienting nature of the platform provides a sense of safety and freedom for discussing controversial feminist topics(Jessalynn,2019). In 2017, an analysis of 300 selfies posted on Tumblr using the #bodypositive hashtag revealed a wide variety of self-presentations and user reactions within this empowering community. These selfies depict people embracing their bodies, challenging social norms and promoting self-acceptance. The text accompanying the selfie focuses on self-acceptance, with an empowering and positive tone, while also touching on themes of self-improvement(Anne,2022).

The research also revealed user reactions within the #bodypositive community, with more than half of the selfies receiving positive feedback in the form of likes, encouraging comments and retweets. This active engagement reflects the supportive and empowering nature of the community, emphasizing the beauty and strength of the individuals depicted(Anne,2022)

.

To sum up, the #bodypositive community on Tumblr is an authentic, progressive and creative space that promotes diversity, self-acceptance and empowerment. By using hashtags like #bodypositive, individuals can continue to create a supportive and inclusive environment that challenges society's beauty standards and promotes self-love and acceptance.

Reference

Anne,R（ 2022）,“Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag ,Volume 26, 2023 - Issue 6,pp8-15

Keller, J. (2019). “oh, she’s a Tumblr feminist”: Exploring the platform vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms. Social Media & the Self: An Open Reader. https://doi.org/10.32376/3f8575cb.30dbf3b9

[kimisworking]

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

Tumblr is a microblogging and social networking platform that has gained significant popularity. It is reported to have had 166.4 million users and 73.4 billion posts by January 201412. Tumblr is known for its rich content and hybrid characteristics of social networking, traditional blogosphere, and social media (Chang et al. 2014). This platform has evolved into a space that fosters diversity and authenticity, challenging the established ideals of beauty and femininity.

A study titled "Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive by Anne Reif, Insa Miller & Monika Taddicken provides insights into the diversity of self-presentation and user reactions within the #bodypositive community on Tumblr, shedding light on the complexities of online feminist spaces and the use of social media for body positivity.

The #bodypositive movement on Tumblr is a testament to the platform's function as a digital community. It encourages users to embrace their bodies, regardless of societal standards of beauty, and promotes self-love and acceptance. This movement is not just about posting selfies; it's about challenging societal norms, sparking conversations, and fostering a supportive community.

The use of hashtags like #bodypositive on Tumblr allows for the creation of sub-communities within the larger digital community. These sub-communities provide a space for individuals to share their experiences, engage in discussions, and support each other. They serve as a safe haven for individuals who may feel marginalized or misunderstood in other social spaces.

In conclusion, Tumblr functions as a digital community by providing a platform for individuals to express themselves freely, challenge societal norms, and find support among like-minded individuals. The #bodypositive movement on Tumblr is a prime example of how digital communities can foster diversity, authenticity, and positive change.

References:

Chang, Y, Tang, L, Inagaki, Y & Liu, Y 2014, ‘What Is Tumblr’, ACM SIGKDD Explorations Newsletter, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 21–29, viewed 31 January 2024, <https://arxiv.org/abs/1403.5206>.

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, pp. 1038–1061, viewed 31 January 2024, <https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442>.

[nqvbleble]

How does Tumblr function as a digital community?

Tumblr is a vibrant online community that offers users an adaptable microblogging platform for content production and engagement. By combining a variety of material forms, including text, photos, videos, and links, users may create blogs that are customized to their interests. Tumblr is unique because of its reblogging function, which promotes community engagement and cooperation by allowing content to spread throughout the site. Communities centred on certain themes may be formed more easily thanks to the tagging system, and the platform's strong feeling of community is further reinforced by its prominent role in fandoms and subcultures. Users engage through direct messaging, replies, and the mobile app, enhancing accessibility and facilitating real-time interactions. Upholding community guidelines, Tumblr ensures a safe and inclusive environment for users to connect and share. This description is informed by various studies on digital communities, including research on Tumblr's role in subcultures (Brown et al., 2016; Miller & White, 2018) and social interaction on online platforms (Chen et al., 2018; Tufekci, 2017).

Comparative Analysis of the #bodypositive Movement Across Social Media Platforms: Insights into Content, Engagement, and Community Dynamics

Comparative study of the #bodypositive hashtag's usage on Tumblr and other social media sites offers a comprehensive look at community dynamics, participation, and content in the context of body positivity. The significance of visual components on Tumblr has been highlighted in earlier research, which raises the possibility that the #bodypositive movement on this platform places a premium on pictures and gifs. On the other hand, social media sites like Facebook and Twitter may favour textual representations of body positivity (Schrock et al., 2017; Smith & Jones, 2019).

Studies that have looked at connection trends have revealed differences in the dynamics of interactions between platforms (Chen et al., 2018; Garcia & Smith, 2020). As an example, Tumblr's reblogging function may encourage community development and collaborative content production, but Instagram and other platforms might rely more on immediate sharing and comments. Determining how consumers engage with the #bodypositive movement across various platforms requires an understanding of these tendencies.

Within the #bodypositive movement, the distinctive characteristics of each platform impact how communities function. Studies have shown that Tumblr frequently provides birth to a variety of body-positive sub-movements or sub-communities, each with its own intricate syntax (Brown et al., 2016; Miller & White, 2018). As algorithms on sites like Instagram or TikTok may differ greatly from Tumblr's model, the influence of platform algorithms in determining the appearance of #bodypositive material should not be disregarded (Duffy et al., 2019; Sen et al., 2021).

Analyzing the offline effects of the #bodypositive movement across various platforms requires a thorough examination. Although research has shown that online communities have varied degrees of effect on offline behaviours and attitudes (Lee & Kim, 2017; Yang & Wang, 2020), a thorough analysis is necessary to comprehend how the power of online communities translates into advocacy or real-world activities.

References:

1.Brown, J., et al. 2016, 'Exploring Subcultures on Tumblr: A Case Study of Rich Sticky Notes', In Proceedings of the 2016 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.

2.Chen, L., et al. 2018, 'Understanding User Engagement in Social Commerce: A Social Learning Perspective', Information & Management, 55(4), 450-464.

3.Duffy, B. E., et al. 2019, '(Mis)Informed: Examining Fake News in the 2016 Election', Proceedings of the 2019 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.

4.Garcia, D., & Smith, A. N. 2020, 'From Incel to Extremist: Investigating the Role of Anonymous Social Networks in the Evolution of Online Extremism', Studies in Conflict & Terrorism, 1-22.

5.Lee, J., & Kim, H. N. 2017, 'Predictors of the Continuance Intention to Use Mobile Apps: A Trust Transfer Perspective', Information & Management, 54(5), 648-661.

6.Miller, C., & White, B. 2018, 'Diverse Subcultures in Social Networks', In Proceedings of the 2018 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.

7.Schrock, A., et al. 2017, '#Activism: A Quantitative Analysis of #Cyberactivism', Proceedings of the 2017 ACM Conference on Computer Supported Cooperative Work and Social Computing.

8.Sen, A., et al. 2021, 'Algorithmic Accountability: A Primer', In Proceedings of the 2021 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.

9.Smith, J., & Jones, M. 2019, 'Linguistic Reflections of Online Extremism: A Case Study of Gab.AI', In Proceedings of the 2019 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.

10.Yang, J., & Wang, Z. 2020, 'Examining the Effects of Online Reviews on Consumers’ Decision-Making: A Heuristic-Systematic Model Approach', Journal of Business Research, 113, 57-68.

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WEEK 3 DISCUSSION#: TUMBLR CASE STUDY

The reading in Week 3 offered me a comprehensive overview of the evolution of the feminist movement, particularly the #bodypositive movement, on social media platforms. Specifically, the platform selected for this week's subject is not well-known platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, but rather Tumblr - an innovative amalgamation of conventional weblogs and social networking sites.Upon completing the reading for week 3, I proceeded to perform independent research on the following two inquiries: 1/ How does social media promote feminist activism? 2/ Compare the respective roles of the two platforms, Facebook and Tumblr, in the feminist movement. Part 1: How does social media encourage feminism activities?

Prior to commencing, I would like to provide the illustration of how social networks have contributed to the feminist movement, exemplified by the #Metoo movement (If you have the time, there are two further links provided below that offer more comprehensive information regarding this movement). The #MeToo movement rapidly gained significant attention in October 2017 on various social media platforms, serving as a means to illustrate the extensive occurrence of sexual harassment and abuse, particularly in professional settings. On October 15, 2017, Milano posted the phrase "Me too" on Twitter, which garnered over 200,000 uses by the end of the day and surpassed 500,000 uses by October 16. According to Gordon (2023), around 4.7 million individuals on Facebook utilised the hashtag #Metoo in about 12 million postings throughout the initial 24-hour period. The #Metoo movement has attained a degree of popularity, and it is important to note that it is just one among several feminist movements that have been coordinated on social media platforms. Without a doubt, social media has made significant and beneficial contributions to the advancement and dissemination of the feminist cause. According to Taylor (2013), social networks “supply not only the social ties but the cultural context, the strategies, and the tactical repertoires that facilitate the construction of politicized collective identities”. For instance, Facebook offers a unique online environment for building communities and enabling engagement. Previously, feminist organisations utilized their Facebook networks as a cost-free tool for organization and as a strategy to broaden the scope of their offline campaigns (Crossley, 2015).  Social media has become a potent force in the modern day, profoundly influencing several facets of society, including the feminist movement. Social media has significantly transformed feminism by amplifying women's voices, promoting international unity, and catalyzing tangible societal progress. Although women continue to be inadequately represented in the media as a whole, social media provides a more equitable platform that enables women from many backgrounds and countries to have their opinions heard, regardless of their level of influence or popularity. Malala Yousafzai, aged 26, serves as a Pakistani advocate for education. Malala gained recognition for her advocacy of human rights, specifically focusing on promoting education for women and children in her native region of Swat, Pakistan. Notably, the Taliban had previously imposed a ban on girls attending school in this area. Malala utilises social media platforms to sustain her campaign and advance the cause of worldwide female education (Sganzetta & Bracelli, 2021). #The Malala Fund, established by her, has facilitated the provision of educational opportunities for girls in poor nations. Concurrently, her foundation's messaging has been altered by her social media presence.  Social media has facilitated the formation of online communities where women can seek assistance, exchange guidance, and establish connections with persons who have similar interests and beliefs. Instagram and YouTube have facilitated the emergence of a surge in feminist influencers and content makers who utilise their platforms to impart knowledge and motivate (Jackson, 2018). These individuals frequently engage in discussions pertaining to various feminist topics such as body acceptance, the interconnectedness of social identities, the right to control one's reproductive choices, and equitable treatment regardless of gender (Jackson, 2018). They offer a platform for women to seek counsel, discover motivation, and cultivate a feeling of inclusion. Online communities provide a platform for marginalised groups within feminism, including women of colour, LGBTQ+ individuals, and handicapped women, to connect with one another, support each other, and fight for their unique needs and experiences (Jackson, 2018). 

Part 2: Facebook and Tumblr in feminist movement

In recent years, there has been a growing interest among feminist scholars and the general public in how digital media has enabled the visibility and spread of feminist politics in modern times.

Facebook

Facebook presents both potential dangers and advantages for feminists. 

A significant number of adolescent girls interviewed expressed similar views. They believe that Facebook poses a risk not due to anonymous troublemakers, as discussed by British teenagers in relation to Twitter, but because the individuals they are connected to on the platform, such as parents, siblings, relatives, and school peers, are people with whom they have social relationships beyond the online platform (Keller, 2019). Adolescents were generally discerning in their choices of content to share on Facebook, taking into account their "imagined audience" (Marwick & Boyd, 2011) and the anticipated responses from their "friends." Therefore, girls refrained from discussing their personal experiences with sexism on Facebook. However, they were more inclined to share less personal instances of feminist critique, such as sexist advertisements or humorous feminist memes. They chose to share content that would not provoke much controversy, concern, or anxiety among their friends and family. 

Facebook's platform explicitly discourages anonymity, since users are expected to exhibit their "authentic self" by using their true first and last name when creating a profile (Bivens, 2017). The company regularly eliminates profiles that are considered to be fraudulent. Facebook's aspiration for a regulated platform characterised by "genuine identities" influences the nature of social interactions, including feminist activity, occurring on the network. Although anonymity is typically praised for allowing teenagers to express their true selves on social media, in this case, the absence of anonymity on Facebook may have motivated the girls to confront their opposite because they were familiar with him, rather than dealing with an unknown online harasser (Keller, 2019).

Tumblr

The platform distinguishes itself from other social media platforms through several key features. Most notably, it lacks personal profiles and networks of "friends," resulting in the creation of several anonymous "Tumblrs" with elusive owners (Keller, 2019). The anonymity offered by Tumblr is a significant factor that attracts numerous teenage feminists to utilise the platform. Tumblr offers a distinct platform compared to Twitter and Facebook, with its design focused on characteristics such as anonymity and enhanced user control. This design allows females to actively participate in a variety of feminist themes that they may not find appropriate for other platforms (Keller, 2019). This is particularly true for Tumblr, since it provides a unique social privacy for feminist girls, granting them a feeling of protection from both their family and friends, as well as anonymous individuals who engage in malicious online behaviour. As said in the title of this article, Tumblr has become known for being a venue that is supportive of feminism. It is a platform where complex conversations on topics such as intersectionality, patriarchy, and protest often take place (Keller, 2019).

The platform's design intentionally reduces the visibility or priority of certain content in search results, which gives users a feeling of freedom from the limitations of traditional networked social media. This can be compared to being in a black hole, as described by Cho (2015). 

The portrayal of Tumblr as an anonymous and bewildering realm highlights the concern of privacy. Social privacy pertains to an individual's capacity to exercise authority over the dissemination of information, determining who can access it and under what circumstances. By doing so, one can regulate social dynamics and oversee interpersonal connections. Although not explicitly mentioned, the girls' conversations about Tumblr in comparison to Facebook and Twitter imply that girls need to preserve a certain level of social privacy in order to engage in online feminism (Marwick & Boyd, 2011). 

Conclusion

My objective is to delineate the interconnected possibilities and constraints that each platform presents for girls engaging in feminist activism. These prospects involve strategically utilising various social media channels to actively engage in feminist politics, openly demonstrating oneself as a feminist activist, rallying community and peer support, and preserving social privacy as needed.

References:

Bivens, R. (2017). The gender binary will not be deprogrammed: Ten years of coding gender on Facebook. New Media & Society, 19(6), 880-898. doi: 10.1177/1461444815621527

Cho, A. (2015). Queer reverb: Tumblr, affect, time. Networked affect, 43-58.

Crossley, A. D. (2015). Facebook feminism: Social media, blogs, and new technologies of contemporary US feminism. Mobilization: An International Quarterly, 20(2), 253-268. doi: 10.17813/1086-671X-20-2-253

Gordon, S. (2023, April 28). The #MeToo Movement: History, SA Statistics, Impact. Verywell Mind. Retrieved February 1, 2024, from https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-metoo-movement-4774817

Jackson, S. (2018). Young feminists, feminism and digital media. Feminism & Psychology, 28(1), 32-49. doi: 10.1177/095935351771695

Marwick, A. E., & Boyd, D. (2011). I tweet honestly, I tweet passionately: Twitter users, context collapse, and the imagined audience. New media & society, 13(1), 114-133. doi: 10.1177/1461444810365313

Sganzetta, L., & Bracelli, P. (2021, April 17). Malala Yousafzai, a life spent fighting for the right to education. LifeGate. Retrieved February 1, 2024, from https://www.lifegate.com/malala-yousafzai-biography

Taylor, V. (2013). Social movement participation in the global society: Identity, networks and emotions. The future of social movement research: Dynamics, mechanisms, and processes, 37-57

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WEEK 3: Tumblr - How Does Tumblr Function As A Digital Community & Feminism With Selfies And Hashtag #bodypositive On Tumblr

What Is Tumblr?

Tumblr can be described as an integrated social networking platform of both Facebook and Twitter with the essence of traditional blogging. This unique integration brings to users a vibrant and diverse collection of thematic blogs, catering to a multitude of interests (Power 2014).

The platform empowers users to engage in diverse interactive activities, such as following interesting blogs, like, reply, share or reblog to any posts on the platform. In addition, Tumblr motivates users to create content to express themselves through text, photo, quote, link, chat, audio or video forms to encourage and build dynamic online environments with the wide user connections shared common interests, opinions or even ideologies.

Beauty Stereotypes. Selfies & Associated Negative Issues

In our society, a prevailing community perception points fingers at women to occupy a weaker position, burdened by restrictive social labels throughout their lives. And in fact, despite advancements in social progress, mass media continues to perpetuate, at times inadvertently, narrow definitions and ideals of feminine beauty (Cwynar-Horta 2016). 

Reif, Miller, and Taddicken (2022) cited established diverse research demonstrating the "stereotyped" label from society - young, white, and slender women can represent themselves in mass media; and who deviate from this archetype in terms of size, skin tone, age, or gender nonconformity, they often feel unsuitable for media visibility. This pervasive idealization of female beauty standards fuels societal and internal pressures on women to conform, leading to serious consequences such as heightened risk of body dissatisfaction, diminished self-esteem, and even severe mental health issues of women and girls when facing these unrealistic representations.

Selfie posting on social media can be a double-edged sword. Reif, Miller, and Taddicken has repeated opinions from Kim & Chock (2015) and Lobinger & Brantner (2015) that while offering user-generated content and fostering a sense of realism compared to traditional media, concerns arise regarding their ability to genuinely depict and authenticate online identities on several levels.

Firstly, selfies facilitate self-expression and identity exploration. It empowers individuals to confidently show their personalities, challenge societal beauty standards, and engage in discussions on body acceptance (Hutchinson 2019). However, concerns exist regarding the extent to which such portrayals are truly authentic. The prevalence of photo editing tools, exemplified by selfie filters, raises questions about how realistically these curated images represent individuals. As platforms like Instagram emphasize aesthetics, users often carefully edit their feeds and stories to certain unspoken standards. This extends beyond selfies, as evidenced by the trend of utilizing film cameras or apps to achieve a specific "vintage" aesthetic. Regardless of the photo type, social media imposes certain pressures.

Self-objectification theory further illuminates this dynamic. It describes a two-way relationship where users face pervasive societal ideals of beauty and gender norms, represented by “walls” constructed of prejudice. This pressure motivates individuals to pursue these ideals, potentially amplifying traditional beauty standards and reinforcing internalized biases. Furthermore, some argue that users prioritize their appearance and body image over genuine expression, evidenced by frequent editing and posting behavior (Caso et al. 2020; Rousseau 2021).

As research of Reif, Miller, and Taddicken (2022), they mentioned one example of this pressure is the pursuit of “likes” (Butkowski et al. 2019). Under the influence of self-sexualization and objectification (Bell et al. 2018), users fear receiving minimal engagement for photos that deviate from accepted standards. This fear aligns with the “popularity paradox” (Heidelberg & Cruz 2015), where the desire for social validation drives adherence to specific norms. Another norm highlighted by Duffy & Hund (2019) is the pressure for women to share personal information on social media to appear authentic, further complicating the notion of genuine self-presentation.

Case study: “Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive

With the study “Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive, it delved into the complexity of online feminist spaces and the using of social media to express body positivity through the selfies in #bodypositive hashtag on Tumblr. It explored the diverse modes of self-presentation and user interactions within this platform's #bodypositive community, thereby allowing a nuanced investigation of the multifaceted nature of online feminist engagement with body positivity. Notably, the “body” encompasses not normal physical appearance, but also mentioned the perceptions, attitudes, thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and behaviors associated with the body (Cash 2004).

Baym & Senft's  research (2015) has been cited in research by Reif, Miller & Taddicken in 2022 that highlights the prevalence of selfies within communication research, particularly amongst young individuals and women. Recognizing the societal pressures placed upon women to conform to established beauty standards, the strategic use of selfies empowers this demographic to connect and reclaim their narratives.

This concept gains further nuance when considering platforms like Tumblr and hashtags such as #bodypositive. As Keller (2019) observes, these spaces provide avenues for boundless creative expression through unconventional hairstyles, gender-fluid aesthetics, and diverse portrayals of selfhood, often challenging traditional norms and celebrating LGBTQIA+ relationships.

In essence, Tumblr fosters a sense of "haven" for women confronting societal prejudices, offering an unrestricted platform for self-expression and mitigating the negative impacts of external bias. This motivates a friendly and open environment that goes beyond conventional beauty standards, embraces diverse gender identities, and celebrates individual expression (Kruse, Norris & Flinchum 2018).

New Platform Appearance? Threads VS Tumblr VS Twitter?

The social media landscape is buzzing with the question: who will be the next big platform? Threads, Tumblr, and Twitter own many similar features and they are all vying for users with unique visual identities. 

Tumblr offers a vibrant community through hashtag connection and following blogs, customizable the post with different fonts, type of words, pictures, gifs, videos or audio for self-expression. Twitter's or X was born early and became famous with the blue bird image. It allows people to connect through hashtag, upload posts, call tweets and retweet features, and so on. Threads was born recently, but it has emerged as a phenomenon of activities labeled "healing" and freely giving personal opinions, connecting the community through random algorithms. 

While each platform's look reflects its values and community, the real competition lies in fostering meaningful connections and engaging content, not just a fresh coat of paint. Can Threads' intimacy win over Twitter's fast-paced newsfeed? Will Tumblr's artistic haven attract those seeking meaningful interaction? Or will Twitter's established reputation prevail? Only time will tell which platform, through features and engagement, not just appearance, will truly capture the hearts and minds of the next generation of social media users. Remember, a beautiful facade holds no weight without a beating heart at its core.

Conclusion

The "Love the Skin You're In Selfies" study, conducted on the social media platform Tumblr, offers valuable insights into the platform's function as a vibrant digital community. Focusing specifically on the #bodypositive community, the study reveals how Tumblr acts as a dynamic space motivating diverse expressions of self-acceptance and inclusivity. Within this community, members actively contribute to shaping a narrative that challenges established social norms and celebrates the unique differences of individual identities.

More importantly, the study transcends a mere analysis of individual actions, highlighting the community power through the hashtag #bodypositive on Tumblr. It expresses the platform's role not simply as a social media platform but as a developing digital community where diversity is actively embraced and self-affirmation is encouraged. In essence, the findings support the opinion that Tumblr is building a space where bodies are celebrated and honored, empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves within a supportive digital environment.

Reference list

Cash, TF 2004, ‘Body Image: Past, Present, and Future’, Body Image, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 1–5, viewed 3 February 2024, <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1740144503000111>.

Cwynar-Horta, J 2016, ‘The Commodification of the Body Positive Movement on Instagram’, Stream: Interdisciplinary Journal of Communication, vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 36–56, viewed <https://journals.sfu.ca/stream/index.php/stream/article/view/203>.

Hutchinson, J 2019, ‘Micro-platformization for digital activism on social media’, Information, Communication & Society, vol. 24, no. 1, pp. 35–51, viewed 3 February 2024, <https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1369118X.2019.1629612>.

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.

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.

Power, JL 2014, ‘Tumblr’, Taylor & Francis Group, Journal of Access Services, vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 91-96.

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, vol. 26, no. 6, viewed 3 February 2024, <https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442>.

#MDA20009 #Week3 #DigitalCommunity #TumblrCaseStudy

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WEEK 3: HOW TUMBLR IS USED BY DISENGAGED AND UNDERPRIVELEGED GROUPS?

Direct comparisons between Tumblr, Reddit, and Instagram may be difficult because each platform has an own user base and set of features. Based on the data at my disposal, Instagram has a greater user base than Tumblr and Reddit. But every platform has a particular function and supports various kinds of interactions and information. Tumblr is renowned for emphasizing creative expression and blogging.

The site is useful for communication study because it provides a large amount of room for users to add textual context to the selfies they submit. Hashtags are widely used to create communities, and shared blogs may be handled collaboratively with others (Renninger, 2015). The visibility of posts within these hashtags is independent of the number of followers, the user’s usual participation within the community, or the number of reactions to the post, thus allowing for a wider range of voices to be heard (Renninger, 2015). Users have the opportunity to like, comment, or reblog content to interact with the post and its creator. These interactions are summarized in a single notes number. Tumblr prevents trolling and bad replies by concealing the more detailed reactions below the summary (Cavalcante, 2018).

Tumblr, which was founded as a hybrid of social networking sites and conventional weblogs, creates the foundation for a vibrant and varied feminist community. Conversely, women who share sexually suggestive photographs on social media sites like Facebook or Instagram typically face backlash and become targets of victimization and "slut-shaming" (Miguel, 2016). Tumblr distinguished itself from these platforms until its policy change in 2018 due to its acceptance of NSFW (Not Safe for Work) content (Renninger, 2015; Tiidenberg & Cruz, 2015). Therefore, in light of earlier studies highlighting the drawbacks and hazards, the general concept of #bodypositive—creating diverse feminist spaces that enable women to discover their own beauty—had a lot of promise on Tumblr until 2018 (Cohen et al., 2019; Maddox, 2019; Sastre, 2014). Furthermore, Tumblr was seen as a platform for "emotional authenticity" and was utilized to create counterpublic spaces for progressive and underprivileged groups (Hart, 2015; Cavalcante, 2018).

Tumblr's role in activism and awareness cannot be overstated. Underprivileged groups leverage the platform to raise awareness about social issues, disseminate information, and mobilize support for various causes. It serves as a powerful tool for grassroots activism, enabling connections among like-minded individuals passionate about creating change. The visual nature of Tumblr makes it an ideal platform for artistic expression. Individuals from disengaged or underprivileged backgrounds can showcase their creative talents, whether through illustrations, photography, or writing. This not only provides an outlet for expression but also offers an opportunity for recognition within the community.

Identity exploration is another vital aspect, with users openly discussing and affirming their identities, including aspects related to gender, sexuality, and race. For marginalized groups, Tumblr becomes a space for self-discovery and acceptance, fostering conversations that may be stigmatized in mainstream society.

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.

Cohen, R, Irwin, L, Newton-John, T & Slater, A 2019, ‘#bodypositivity: A content analysis of body positive accounts on Instagram’, Body Image, vol. 29, no. 29, pp. 47–57.

Hart, M 2015, ‘Youth Intimacy on Tumblr’, YOUNG, vol. 23, no. 3, pp. 193–208.

Hillman, S, Procyk, J & Neustaedter, C 2014, ‘Tumblr fandoms, community & culture’, Proceedings of the companion publication of the 17th ACM conference on Computer supported cooperative work & social computing - CSCW Companion ’14.

Maddox, J 2019, ‘“Be a badass with a good ass”: race, freakery, and postfeminism in the #StrongIsTheNewSkinny beauty myth’, Feminist Media Studies, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 1–22.

Miguel, C 2016, ‘Visual Intimacy on Social Media: From Selfies to the Co-Construction of Intimacies Through Shared Pictures’, Social Media + Society, vol. 2, no. 2, p. 205630511664170.

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.

Sastre, A 2014, ‘Towards a Radical Body Positive’, Feminist Media Studies, vol. 14, no. 6, pp. 929–943.

Tiidenberg, K & Gómez Cruz, E 2015, ‘Selfies, Image and the Re-making of the Body’, Body & Society, vol. 21, no. 4, pp. 77–102.