Audience of One: The Double-Edged Sword of Performative Emotion in the Social Media Era

The use of performative emotion to control or influence others is a multifaceted issue. Public outbursts, whether of joy, sadness, or anger, can be powerful tools for garnering attention, sympathy, or support. Social media platforms, with their broad reach and instant feedback mechanisms, provide a perfect stage for these performances. When someone shares a highly emotive post or video, they often receive immediate reactions—likes, shares, comments—which can be gratifying and addictive. This instant feedback loop can encourage further emotional performances.