Memes, Misogyny and Misinformation: Exploring the Re-Victimization of Women through Meme Culture within an Online Space

Abstract

This presentation examines the relationship between the social media platforms YouTube, Reddit, and Instagram and memes that take part in the re-victimization of women who have been the targets of abuse and violence. This body of research examines the cases of Amanda Todd and Selene Delgado Lopez who have both been subjected to abusive behaviours online in the form of memes. By utilizing a quantitative approach, the data collected is used to analyze the subject matter within these memes along with the kinds of engagement each post receives. Findings show that certain platforms are more inclined to ban specific search terms but only for some subject matters. Findings also indicate that platforms such as Reddit allow for a more unmoderated stream of posts. Almost every meme that was posted reached an audience that was in favour of the content posted. This study contributes to the relatively small yet growing body of research for the topic of memes and meme culture.