Creating change through code: A summer of research on Tiktok’s impact on sexual violence

Author: Aliyah Hipp | Major: Public Health | Semester: Spring 2024

As I embarked on my honors thesis journey in public health, I felt a pull towards exploring the intersection of social media and sexual violence awareness. Under the guidance of my mentor, Dr. Shristi Bhochhibhoya, I spent the summer coding TikTok videos, seeking to unravel the coping and awareness strategies survivors employ within this digital realm. Coding TikTok videos proved to be both challenging and enlightening. I meticulously analyzed the content, seeking patterns and insights into how survivors navigate the platform to seek support and share their experiences. From poetry and song lyrics to hashtag activism and peer support, I discovered a plethora of coping mechanisms and awareness strategies employed by TikTok users.

However, the journey was not without its hurdles. Navigating the ethical complexities of studying sensitive content on a public platform demanded a delicate balance between academic inquiry and ethical responsibility. Additionally, the ever-evolving nature of social media presented logistical challenges, requiring adaptability and perseverance. We made changes to our codebook, adding more definitions and details to avoid uncertainties when coding the videos. Throughout this process, my mentor, Dr. Bhochhibhoya, provided invaluable guidance and support. Her expertise in qualitative research methods and passion for public health advocacy served as constant sources of inspiration. Collaborating with fellow students and faculty members enriched my research experience, offering diverse perspectives and fostering a sense of community.

Transitioning from coding TikTok videos to writing my thesis fills me with anticipation for the journey ahead. The 2024 American Public Health Association Annual Meeting (APHA) conference in Minneapolis looms on the horizon, offering a platform to share my findings with fellow scholars and practitioners. With each word I write, I am driven by a sense of purpose, knowing my research has the potential to inform future interventions and support mechanisms for survivors of sexual violence.

Looking ahead, I am eager to continue my advocacy work in public health, leveraging my research findings to drive positive social change. Whether through further academic pursuits or direct engagement with communities affected by sexual violence, I am committed to utilizing my voice to amplify the experiences of survivors and advocate for a more just and equitable society. As I prepare to defend my thesis at the APHA conference, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful research. Through this endeavor, I hope to inspire fellow students to embark on their own research journeys, guided by curiosity, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to public health equity.

The Honors College Research Grant played a crucial role in supporting my exploration of sexual violence awareness on TikTok. I am confident that my research will deepen our understanding of survivors’ experiences and contribute to the development of more effective support mechanisms. Reflecting on this journey, I am reminded of the initial curiosity that ignited my interest in the intersection of social media and sexual violence awareness. My undergraduate studies in public health laid the foundation for this exploration, and TikTok emerged as a focal point for my research due to its popularity among younger adults. Coding TikTok videos proved to be an intricate yet rewarding process, providing me with a nuanced understanding of how survivors navigate the digital landscape. They utilize creative expression and community-building to cope with trauma and advocate for change. While challenges and surprises were aplenty, this journey has reaffirmed my passion for public health advocacy. As I move forward, I carry with me a profound sense of gratitude for the support of my mentor, peers, and the Honors College. Together, let us continue to strive for a future where survivors are heard, supported, and empowered to reclaim their narratives.