Twitch, the popular livestreaming platform, is cracking down on suggestive content once more. Starting this Friday, streamers will no longer be allowed to focus their broadcasts on clothed intimate body parts for extended periods.
This latest update to Twitch's community guidelines further restricts sexually suggestive content, a topic that has caused friction between the platform and some creators. The new policy specifically targets lingering shots of "buttocks, groin, or breasts."
The move comes amidst Twitch's ongoing struggle to strike a balance between inclusivity and managing content that some may find inappropriate. In recent months, the platform has made several adjustments to its policies:
Digital Nudity Fiasco: In December, a brief attempt to allow artistic depictions of fictional nudity backfired. User concerns and content that pushed the boundaries led to a swift reversal of the policy. The Rise of "Topless Meta": Streamers found loopholes, utilizing black censor bars and other props to create the illusion of nudity. This prompted another policy update in January, explicitly prohibiting suggestions of nudity and clarifying acceptable attire for female streamers.
Twitch's journey reflects its evolution as a platform. While originally known for gaming and esports, it has expanded to encompass a wider range of content, including cooking shows, ASMR, and even some sex work promotion (although explicit content must reside on other platforms).
Research suggests a gender disparity in Twitch's sexualization issue. A recent study revealed that female streamers tend to sexualize themselves more frequently and intensely than their male counterparts. This, according to the researchers, is likely a strategy to compete in a "profoundly masculinized environment" where women are a minority. Furthermore, the study highlights the negative consequences of this environment, including harassment and sexual objectification.
Despite the crackdown, Twitch still allows some suggestive content under the "Sexual Themes" label, excluding it from homepage recommendations. This includes activities like erotic dance, non-sexual BDSM attire, and non-educational discussions of sexuality.
Twitch's ongoing struggle with sexual content highlights the complexities of managing online communities. While some creators feel the platform imposes unnecessary restrictions, others advocate for a more inclusive and respectful environment, especially for female streamers. This latest policy update is a step towards achieving that balance.