Social media algorithms ‘amplifying misogynistic content’

[WarriorN]

https://www.theguardian.com/media/2024/feb/06/social-media-algorithms-amplifying-misogynistic-content?CMP=ShareiOSAppp_Other

Very concerning article and one which I can certainly believe.

Researchers interviewed young people engaging with and producing radical online content to help create a number of archetypes of teenage boys who might be vulnerable to becoming radicalised. Accounts were set up on TikTok for each archetype, each with specific interests – they might be seeking content on masculinity or loneliness – and researchers then watched more than 1,000 videos that TikTok suggested on its “For You” page over seven days.

The initial suggested content was in line with the stated interests of each archetype, but after five days researchers said the TikTok algorithm was presenting four times as many videos with misogynistic content including objectification, sexual harassment or discrediting women, which increased from 13% of recommended videos to 56%.

Christ!

It's not just misogynistic content though is it. We know full well that this happens with trans content too.

I first read about this in Laura Bates book, Men who hate women, a few years back. As you say, it's not just misogyny but the algorithms will eventually take you to more and more extreme content which links to your initial interests. It is horrific and i don't know how they get away with it.

I find it really worrying how many kids are allowed free access to the likes of YouTube... many parents seem to have no idea. I boycott these types of site now, but it really needs improved awareness for parents to be able to prevent their kids entering into this.