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Articles on Social media influencers

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YouTuber Matthew Smith, who posts under the name DangMattSmith, takes a selfie with fans at VidCon Anaheim in June 2023. Unique Nicole/Getty Images

With the end of the Hollywood writers and actors strikes, the creator economy is the next frontier for organized labor

Even the world’s most successful creators can see their livelihoods threatened by social media companies that routinely change their algorithms and policies with impunity.
The world of influencing is not always as honest and exciting as it’s cracked up to be. (Shutterstock)

Want to be a social media influencer? You might want to think again

As social media becomes more prevalent in our lives, a career as an influencer may seem enticing. But those interested in this new career should be aware of the challenges.
Influencers like Kim Kardashian, who has 307 million followers on Instagram, need to be aware of problematic engagement. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)

The dark side of social media influencing

Influencers need to be aware that some of their followers may have unhealthy relationships with social media. Although it contrasts with their goals, influencers can help create healthy relationships.
A sign outside Lions Gate Hospital in North Vancouver, B.C., explains visitor restrictions to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

Conspiracy theorists are falsely claiming that the coronavirus pandemic is an elaborate hoax

Hospitals have requested that people avoid non-emergency visits, and conspiracy theorists are posting images of empty parking lots online as false proof that COVID-19 is an elaborate hoax.
“Sadfishing” is when a person posts deeply emotional, personal content online in order to get attention or sympathy. Kostsov/Shutterstock

Sadfishing: frequently sharing deeply emotional posts online may be a sign of a deeper psychological issue

“Sadfishers” are people who post sensitive or emotional personal material online to gain sympathy or attention. But this behaviour might actually indicate a deeper psychological issue.
Hannah Shaw (Kitten Lady), with Instagram influencer BriAnne Wills (@girlsandtheircats) at a marketing event in New York, Feb. 2018. Loren Wohl for Fresh Step/AP

The ruthless pursuit of online ‘likes’ gives you nothing

Although some social media users are able to monetize their social media “likes,” much of the pursuit of popularity amounts to nothing and instead turns us into pawns for political and commercial uses

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