Abstract
I am researching how polarizing social media influencers use social media to attract and maintain support. For this research, I specifically focus on the influencer Andrew Tate, analyzing his TikTok performance to understand the relationship between him and his followers. I review past scholarly research on social media, influencers, polarization, cancel culture, free speech, and cultivation theory, which is the guiding theory of my research. The analysis of this utilizes a focus group methodology, specifically made up of Andrew Tate supporters on TikTok. I measured time of exposure to Tate, the content of messages, alignment with Tate, and various other factors that contribute to influencer/audience relationships. I end the research off by presenting three major findings: that influencer relatability, reinforcing an audience's world view, and perceived honesty of an influencer affect their ability to gain and maintain an audience base.
Advisor
Bostdorff, Denise
Department
Communication Studies
Recommended Citation
Briscoe, Harvey, "“I See Me in You”: A Focus Group Study on How Polarizing Social Media Influencers Gather and Retain Support" (2023). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 10630.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/10630
Disciplines
Arts and Humanities
Keywords
Focus Group, Social Media, Polarization, TikTok, Influencer, Cancel Culture
Publication Date
2023
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2023 Harvey Briscoe