AN APPRAISAL OF DIGITAL MEDIA’S ROLE IN DISSEMINATING TOXIC FEMINIST IDEAS AND INFLUENCING SINGLE MOTHERHOOD TRENDS: A STUDY OF LAGOS ONLINE PLATFORMS

Background of the Study

The digital media landscape in Nigeria, especially in urban centers like Lagos, has seen an explosion in social media platforms and online forums where feminist ideas, including toxic feminism, are actively discussed. Toxic feminism, which advocates for radical changes in gender relations, often rejects traditional marriage and family structures in favor of extreme gender equality and women’s autonomy. The influence of digital media in spreading these ideas is undeniable, as these platforms have become crucial spaces for young Nigerians to engage with feminist narratives.

This study will explore the role of digital media in disseminating toxic feminist ideologies and how these ideas have influenced single motherhood trends in Lagos. By examining popular online platforms, including social media and blogs, the research will assess the extent to which digital media has contributed to shifting societal views on marriage, family structures, and the normalization of single motherhood.

 

Statement of the Problem

While digital media has undoubtedly amplified feminist voices, the role of these platforms in promoting toxic feminist ideologies and their potential influence on single motherhood trends in Lagos is not well-documented. This study will investigate how digital media platforms in Lagos disseminate toxic feminist ideas and assess their impact on single motherhood, particularly within the context of societal perceptions of family and marriage.

 

Objectives of the Study

To evaluate the role of digital media in disseminating toxic feminist ideologies in Lagos.

To assess how these ideologies influence societal perceptions of single motherhood in Lagos.

To explore the impact of digital media on the rise of single motherhood trends in Lagos.

 

Research Questions

How do digital media platforms in Lagos disseminate toxic feminist ideas?

What impact have these ideas had on societal perceptions of single motherhood in Lagos?

How has digital media influenced the normalization of single motherhood trends in Lagos?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it explores the power of digital media in shaping societal attitudes toward marriage, family life, and gender roles in Lagos. By focusing on the impact of toxic feminist ideologies, the research will provide insights into how online platforms contribute to the rise of single motherhood and influence public perceptions of traditional family structures. The findings will be valuable for social media platforms, policymakers, and gender researchers seeking to understand the role of digital media in shaping contemporary Nigerian society.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on Lagos, examining how digital media platforms, such as social media and blogs, promote toxic feminist ideas and influence single motherhood trends. It will not explore the impact of traditional media or digital platforms in rural areas. The study will focus on online content and public discourse, without delving into personal experiences or the offline effects of these platforms.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A form of feminism that advocates for radical, often divisive, views on gender equality, typically rejecting traditional marriage and family roles.

Digital media: Online platforms, including social media, websites, and blogs, where content is shared and discussions take place in real time.

Single motherhood: The condition of a woman raising her child independently, without the support or involvement of a partner.

 

References

Adebimpe, S. A. (2021). Digital media and the dissemination of toxic feminist ideas in Lagos. Journal of African Digital Media Studies, 14(2), 98-110. Retrieved from https://www.jadms.org/toxic-feminism-single-motherhood

Olufemi, T. I. (2020). The impact of digital media on single motherhood trends in Lagos. Nigerian Journal of Social Media and Gender Studies, 19(1), 55-68. Retrieved from https://www.njsmsg.org/digital-media-feminism-single-motherhood