Digital and Technology-Facilitated Voyeurism (DTFV) among Chinese Tongzhi During the COVID-19 Pandemic

• In Event: Navigating Queer Realities: Insights from Diverse Experiences

Abstract

This paper focuses on digital and technology-facilitated voyeurism (DTFV) among men attracted to men (tongzhi) during the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in mainland China. Drawing 1,802 original postings on a high-traffic web forum made from September 2019 to August 2020, this mixed-method study sheds some light on the perpetration logistics of DTFV and the meanings of practicing DTFV to Chinese tongzhi during this challenging period. As predicted, the voyeurs relied on archival records and digital methods of perpetration (i.e., straight-baiting) more frequently during the initial wave of the pandemic, though taking photos in public restrooms is still frequent. There is also a somewhat higher prevalence of photos of the voyeurs’ friends and families. I argue that the increased public health concerns legitimize violence against this already vulnerable population and further the marginalization and stigmatization of non-(hetero)normative sexual attractions and behaviors. In turn, the continued practice of DTFV and the adaptations made in the ordinance with public health policies signify a silent protest against the evermore oppressive political regime.

Author

• Yang Vincent Liu, Michigan State University