Çınar Aydoğan

Researching digital spaces and identity.

Cinar’s research investigates issues that transgender people (“trans*”) face in establishing and validating their identity through online disclosure and the impact of social media on the “coming out”-experience of trans* individuals. Technological developments and social media networks connect people and brands in real-time across the globe with a diverse and broad audience. There is not enough research investigating social media’s impact on identity as an ongoing process or constructed/emerged entity. The technological advancements and the provided infrastructure facilitate the integration of our online and offline lives.

On social media, its users are sharing their most private moments not only with their friends and family but also with a worldwide audience. Social media is one way people use to connect with others; it offers a platform to explore LGBTQ+ identity in a “safe space”. This research investigates the participants’ social media usage, use of visible signifiers online and sharing of LGBTQ+-related content created or consumed by them.