The "Female-to-Male" Phenomenon in Short Videos: A Feminist Media Analysis

Feminist media analysis is a set of critical analytical tools used to understand how different kinds of media contribute to the molding of gender and identity, which has played a crucial part in the development of feminism and the media-driven society. This paper conducts a feminist media analysis to investigate the phenomenon of "female-to-male" presentations in TikTok short videos. This paper aims to challenge some traditional notions of "performing gender," as conceptualized by digital media theories, which disrupt established performance standards and promote broader acceptance of diverse practices. Focusing on TikTok users Dayao Tongxue, Chen Lijun, Lapmoby, and Northeast Rain Sister, this research analyzes the content and influence of those influencers to understand how their performances challenge conventional norms and cultivate inclusiveness. The research concludes by examining the impact of social media on the formation of gender identity, specifically in the transition from language-sex to the identification as male or female.