Abstract

This research assesses the website KiwiFarms using a mixed-methods approach, including content analysis and descriptive statistics, to determine whether demographic factors, such as weight, disability, and sexuality, influence an individual’s susceptibility to online trolling for others' entertainment.

The study found that most disproportionately targeted group was found to be overweight females. Meanwhile, Kiwi Farms users were found to be predominantly male, aged 18-24, and reside in the United States. The study's results indicate that the expressions of anomie on KiwiFarms are predominantly disciplinary, suggesting that KiwiFarms users mainly focus their criticism on rule violations rather than targeting individuals based on demographic or physical traits. The findings further demonstrate that anonymity online has been shown to exacerbate hate speech and vitriol, and the culture of KiwiFarms demonstrates how a reference group of like-minded users normalized hostile communication norms within this digital setting.

Semester/Year of Award

Fall 11-11-2025

Mentor

Karina Powell

Mentor Department Affiliation

Language and Cultural Studies, Anthropology, and Sociology

Access Options

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Scholars

Degree Level

Bachelors

Department

Language and Cultural Studies, Anthropology, and Sociology

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