The flavors of sexual liberation: exploring the normalization and dangers of Non-Vanilla Sex and relationship portrayals on TikTok

Abstract

This thesis explores how the theories of postfeminism, neoliberalism, social learning, and sexual scripting contribute to the normalization of toxic, abusive, non-vanilla sex and relationships, especially as it is seen on TikTok. Though it delves into the roles that erotic novels and pornography play in the perpetuation of this phenomenon, this thesis mainly focuses on how women on TikTok exemplify the postfeminist, neoliberal ideals of sexual empowerment and freedom of choice. It also highlights how TikTok’s popularization of a modified traditional sexual script results in the shaming of conventional sex practices and the acceptance of sexual violence against women.