The virtual mask: The dark underbelly of digital anonymity and gender identity construction in Turkey

Abstract

This study explores the impact of online identity on individuals’ perception of self and communication codes. Specifically, the study investigates the relationship between the presentation and construction of identity and gender identity. The research methodology involves conducting in-depth interviews with eight Turkish university students aged 19–23, hailing from various cities across Turkey. Through these interviews and subsequent evaluations, the study identifies significant differences between social and digital identities, which can be attributed to various demographic factors, including gender. Furthermore, the study argues that the digital realm provides favourable opportunities for individuals to express their identities while serving as a platform for mobilization, opposition and alternative modes of communication that challenge existing societal norms. Moreover, results show that young people sometimes experience fears about their social media posts and anxiety that society and the government will punish them.