theguardian.com
TikTok Trend: Gleeking Goes Viral
Gleeking, the forceful projection of saliva from under the tongue, has gone viral on TikTok, with millions of views on videos demonstrating the act and offering tutorials; while 35% of the population gleeks accidentally, only 1% can do so on command.
- How does the gleeking trend on social media reflect broader patterns of online behavior and trend propagation?
- The virality of gleeking on TikTok highlights the platform's role in amplifying unusual trends and behaviors. The act's appeal seems rooted in a combination of novelty, the ability to perform a seemingly unique skill, and its potential for playful interaction (or annoyance). This reflects a broader pattern of social media's influence on shared activities and trends.
- What are the key factors contributing to the recent surge in popularity of gleeking on platforms such as TikTok?
- Gleeking, the act of forcefully projecting saliva from sublingual salivary glands, has recently gained viral popularity on social media platforms like TikTok, accumulating millions of views showcasing the act and tutorials on how to perform it. While some experience it accidentally, particularly while yawning, many are learning to gleek intentionally, often for amusement or to annoy others.
- What are the potential future implications of the gleeking trend, considering its current trajectory and the dynamics of social media virality?
- The continued popularity of gleeking might lead to further exploration of its underlying mechanics and potential variations. This could include variations in technique, the development of gleeking competitions or challenges, and possibly even the incorporation of gleeking into other forms of entertainment or performance. The trend also underscores the power of social media to transform obscure behaviors into widespread phenomena.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing emphasizes the novelty and virality of gleeking, using sensationalized language like "disgusting" and "spitting cobra" to attract attention and generate interest. This framing might unintentionally encourage viewers to try gleeking themselves.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language, such as "disgusting," to describe gleeking. More neutral alternatives could be "unusual," "uncommon," or simply "a way of projecting saliva." The overall tone is sensationalistic rather than objective.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the viral trend of gleeking on social media, but omits discussion of potential health risks or concerns associated with forcefully projecting saliva. It also doesn't explore the broader cultural context of unusual or attention-seeking behaviors online.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by portraying gleeking as either a disgusting and annoying act or a fun and addictive skill. It doesn't explore the possibility of neutral or ambivalent feelings towards the phenomenon.