THE ROLE OF TIKTOK IN OUR LIVES From Fandom to Activism Adriana Sweigart
Introduction
Data Analysis
Conclusion
TikTok has been rising in popularity since
Data was collected on TikTok user growth as well as
TikTok’s algorithm does a fantastic job of keeping
the COVID lockdown. The app has recently
age [See Figure B]. A majority of users are 10-29.
one’s political views on their For You Page. As per the
avoided a ban in the US. Originally a
A.
comedy app, TikTok is now a hub for youth
B.
Distribution of TikTok users in the United States
C.
facilitate youth engagement” (Kyoung, Xenos 177). Within this space, people have anonymity and talk
In the foreseeable future the trend of young voters dominating America’s electorate is evident.
videos, news publications, and research articles. KEY WORD SEARCHES
Activism, #BlackLivesMatter, #GoVote, Viral,
which youth-oriented political content on the Web may
TikTok user growth globally vs in the U.S.
I conducted a literature review of viral TikTok
• COVID, TikTok Ban, Fandom, Youth
online exchange of views is a “mechanism through
as of June 2020, by age group.
activism.
Methods
Journal of Information Technology & Politics, the
Number of people using social media platforms
Figure A: Estimates correspond to montlhy active users (MAUs).
more openly. The algorithm, for the most part, keeps you in a bubble for this engagement.
Results Younger generations have exerted their dominance over social media platforms and now the White House.
Liberal, Conservative, Democrat, Republican • Charli D’Amelio, Claudia Conway
References 1. Xenos, Michael & Kyoung, Kyurim. (2008). Rocking the
Gen Z cares more about social issues.
Vote and More: An Experimental Study of the Impact of Youth Political Portals. Journal of Information Technology
Unlike the silent generation and baby-boomers, younger generations no longer have to ask permission to speak their mind.
& Politics. 5. 175-189. 10.1080/19331680802291400. 2. Sweigart, Adriana. (2020). Sweigart Mass Media.
sweigartmassmedia.wordpress.com. Department of Mass Media Studies Lawrence Herbert School of Communication hofstra.edu