Harassing Bisexuals on YouTube: Bullying, Labeling, and Informal Policing of Sexuality

• In Event: Posters II

Abstract

The online space allows for a more open conversation about sexuality, including bisexuality. However, the internet also seems to allow for harassment, bullying, and hate speech against sexual minorities. Informal policing of sexuality tries to enforce a clear line between what is normative and alien, thus reinforcing prejudices. Because bisexuality challenges the mainstream reliance on the dichotomy of straight and gay/lesbian categories, bisexual individuals may face harassment and hateful comments based on prejudice in online spaces. Using YouTube as the research site, this study examines types of harassment, hateful comments, and how people try to control the topic of bisexuality. We use content analysis to examine 10 videos posted by self-identified bisexual YouTubers and comments left by the viewers. The preliminary results indicate that while most comments were positive and accepting, there were some comments that harass bisexual individuals. Harassment seems more severe toward bisexual men compared to bisexual women. Some viewers’ comments also denied the existence of bisexuality, reinforcing the dichotomy of straight and gay/lesbian labels.

Authors

• Nicole M. Jasperson, North Carolina State University

• Riku Kawaguchi, North Carolina State University