Cringe Culture

Disclaimer: This page discusses online harassment, bullying, and cyberbullying, as well as communities that have been affected by those behaviors.

A cartoon frog proclaiming "I am cringe but I am free," encapsulating the spirit of reclaiming and embracing "cringe" as a form of self-expression and liberation from societal expectations.

"Cringe Culture" is a term that gained prominence on platforms like Tumblr and DeviantArt in the late-2010s, describing a pervasive online phenomenon where perceived "cringe" or "cringey" behavior is met with rejection, mockery, and discouragement. While "cringe" originally denoted "to shrink back, bend, or crouch, especially in fear, pain, or servility," its contemporary usage, particularly within Generation Z slang, has evolved drastically. Notably, the phrase "cringe culture is dead" has become a popular rallying cry on TikTok, particularly associated with aesthetics like Scenecore, signifying a rejection of this phenomenon.

As defined on Urban Dictionary, cringe culture involves "making fun of people and/or insulting them by calling them 'cringy' or 'cringe' for doing something which doesn't harm or somehow insult anyone nor anything." This often manifests as a social phenomenon where people displaying certain aspects of their identity deemed "cringy" become targets of mockery, bullying, and harassment, particularly on social media platforms such as Reddit and YouTube. Targets frequently include, but are not limited to, communities like furries, cosplayers, weebs, and emos, as well as bronies, otherkin, and those expressing certain LGBTQ+ identities that are considered outside of the boundaries of social acceptability, such as non-binary. "Cringe," in this context, is content deemed embarrassing or worthy of mockery, often entirely harmless expressions of individuality.

The rise of "cringe culture" is often traced back to the early-2010s, coinciding with the surge of Anti-SJW (Social Justice Warrior) Cringe Compilation videos on YouTube, and the influence of early internet personalities such as LeafyIsHere. These videos and personalities often fueled a climate where harmless expressions of individuality were ridiculed. Urban Dictionary entries also highlight the role of insecurity and a desire for validation among those who participate in "cringe culture," suggesting that it can be a means of feeling superior by denigrating others' interests. This phenomenon extends beyond casual online interactions, encompassing "cringe compilations" on YouTube, which publicly display and mock individuals, garnering substantial viewership. The term "cringe culture" is said to have been first coined in 2017 on DeviantArt.

Critics of "cringe culture" argue that it stifles self-expression and punishes harmless expressions of individuality, such as particular hobbies, fashion styles, interests, or fandoms. Counter-arguments to cringe culture, such as the phrase "Cringe culture is dead," show that many targeted groups are pushing back against the negative attention. Many Gen Zers, who experienced the peak of cringe culture during their formative years, felt constrained in their self-expression, suppressing their individuality out of fear of ridicule. While cringe culture has persisted, the 2020s have seen a significant rejection of it by the alt community on TikTok, for whom the rejection of cringe culture is a core belief.

Cringe Culture and Aesthetics

Defining "Cringe"

The term "cringe" has undergone a major evolution in its meaning, especially within the context of internet culture. While its traditional definition refers to a physical reaction of recoiling or shrinking back in fear, embarrassment, or disgust, its modern usage has expanded to encompass a broader range of social and emotional experiences.

Traditionally, "cringe" was primarily used as a verb or noun to describe the act of cringing or the feeling of embarrassment or discomfort experienced when witnessing awkward or embarrassing behavior. However, in recent years, it has become increasingly common to use "cringe" as an adjective to describe the thing or person that elicits the cringe reaction. For example, one might say "That video was so cringe" or "He's such a cringe person." The term "cringe" has become a ubiquitous descriptor for anything perceived as awkward, embarrassing, or socially unacceptable, often used to express disapproval or ridicule.

However, the widespread and often indiscriminate use of "cringe" has led to a dilution of its meaning. In many online contexts, the term is applied to a lot of unrelated behaviors and expressions, some of which may not even be traditionally considered awkward or embarrassing. This overuse has rendered the term nearly meaningless in some cases, as it is applied to anything that deviates from perceived social norms or personal preferences.

The Subjectivity of "Cringe"

"Cringe" is subjective; what one person finds cringeworthy, another might not. This is because people have different tastes, values, and experiences. Cultural background can influence what is considered socially acceptable or embarrassing. Behavior that might be cringeworthy in one culture might be normal or even celebrated in another. Age and generation also play a role, as younger and older generations often have different ideas about what is considered "cringe."

Personal experiences and sensitivities shape what triggers a cringe reaction. Something that reminds someone of a past embarrassing experience might be particularly cringeworthy to them, while others might not react the same way. Individual preferences for music, humor, and other forms of expression also influence what someone finds cringeworthy.

The social context can also affect whether something is perceived as cringe. Behavior that might be considered cringeworthy in a formal setting might be perfectly acceptable in a casual setting among friends, much like how there is a tendency for teenagers to text differently with their friends as opposed to their family. Because "cringe" is subjective, it is difficult to create rules for what is and isn't cringeworthy. What might be harmless or even enjoyable to one person could be deeply embarrassing or offensive to another.

Impact on Online Aesthetics and Trends

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Ironic Aesthetics and Cringe Culture

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Cringe Culture as a Social Regulator

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History

Pre-Internet Cringe

While strongly associated with internet culture, the concept of "cringe" predates the digital age, with its origins tracing back to the Old English word "cringan," meaning "to fall, to yield in battle, to give way, to become bent, to curl up." By the 16th century, "cringan" evolved into "cringe," incorporating feelings of fear and embarrassment associated with "bending" or "crouching." This evolution continued, and by the 19th century, "cringe" was firmly established as meaning "to recoil in embarrassment, shame, or fear."

This historical development reveals that the concept of cringe has always been intertwined with social dynamics and the fear of social rejection. The physical act of cringing, characterized by shrinking back or recoiling, is a human response to situations that evoke feelings of shame, embarrassment, or vulnerability. Before the internet, cringe manifested in various social contexts, often associated with awkward social encounters, embarrassing faux pas, memories from formative years such as childhood or teenagehood, or the violation of social norms. The feeling of cringe was often accompanied by a sense of second-hand embarrassment, where individuals would experience discomfort or shame on behalf of others witnessing awkward or embarrassing situations.

Curb Your Enthusiasm - Larry has to take the bus

A classic example of cringe comedy from Curb Your Enthusiasm, where Larry David's social faux pas and awkward encounters create hilariously uncomfortable situations.

The pre-internet history of cringe also saw the emergence of "cringe comedy," a genre that utilized awkward or embarrassing situations for comedic effect. Shows like "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (1999-2024) and "The Office" (2005-2013) capitalized on cringe humor, eliciting laughter and discomfort from audiences by featuring characters navigating social faux pas and uncomfortable situations.

The evolution of cringe from its Old English origins to its pre-internet manifestations shows a consistent theme: the association of cringe with social discomfort, shame, and the fear of social rejection. This foundation laid the groundwork for the internet's amplified and multifaceted interpretation of cringe, where online platforms provided new avenues for experiencing, expressing, and weaponizing the feeling of cringe.

LOLcow Culture

The roots of "cringe culture" can be traced back to the late-2000s with the emergence of the "lolcow" phenomenon. The term "lolcow," a portmanteau of LOL and cow, is used to describe individuals considered highly susceptible to online trolling and exploitation due to their perceived gullibility or attention-seeking behavior. This derogatory term, inspired by the idiom "cash cow," pointed out the practice of "milking" individuals for entertainment through online harassment. This harassment often took the form of trolling and flaming, with the intent of provoking rage and strong emotions for the amusement of specific communities.

Definitions of "lolcow," found on platforms like Urban Dictionary and Encyclopedia Dramatica as early as 2007, emphasized the targeting of individuals who presented themselves as knowledgeable online but were easily provoked or manipulated into reactions that were perceived as amusing or "lulzy." These individuals were often seen as overly confident or arrogant, making their perceived "downfall" at the hands of trolls even more satisfying to the online audience. The term quickly gained traction on forums and imageboards, where users would actively seek out and "milk" these individuals for content.

Kiwi Farms, a controversial online forum often associated with the "lolcow" phenomenon and online harassment, temporarily locked user registration during the #dropkiwifarms campaign, highlighting the platform's role in facilitating "cringe culture" and the pushback it received.

The rise of the "lolcow" phenomenon coincided with the growth of online communities dedicated to gossip and trolling, such as Kiwi Farms. These platforms provided a space for users to share information about potential "lolcows," coordinate harassment campaigns, and document their exploits. This form of online harassment, which continues to this day on various online platforms, not only reveals a darker side of internet fame but also laid the groundwork for later forms of online mockery and the development of "cringe culture." This phenomenon noted the potential for online communities to identify and exploit individuals perceived as different or vulnerable, setting the stage for the broader culture of mockery and ridicule that would later characterize "cringe culture."

Moreover, the "lolcow" phenomenon contributed to the normalization of online harassment and the desensitization of individuals to the suffering of others. The pursuit of entertainment at the expense of vulnerable individuals became a driving force in some online communities, fostering a culture of cruelty, exploitation, and most of the time, a general lack of empathy.

The Rise of Cringe Compilations

The early-2010s witnessed a further development in the trajectory of "cringe culture" with the rise of "cringe compilations" on platforms like YouTube. These compilations aggregated various forms of online content deemed "cringeworthy," often featuring individuals expressing their interests, hobbies, or identities in ways that were considered awkward, embarrassing, or unconventional. This content, often taken out of context or edited manipulatively, was presented for the purpose of eliciting mockery and ridicule from viewers.

Cringe compilations frequently targeted specific communities and subcultures, such as furries, "weeaboos," bronies, emos, and those expressing alternative or LGBTQ+ identities. Another common target were "SJWs" (Social Justice Warriors); individuals perceived to be overly-concerned with social justice and equality issues. The content featured in these videos ranged from harmless expressions of enthusiasm or quirky behavior to more performative acts, often involving fan-made content, such as DeviantArt fanart, which was mocked for featuring political or religious themes, yaoi, unusual kinks, or "crack ships." Many critics argued that these compilations disproportionately targeted autistic, young, fat, or LGBTQ+ individuals, further marginalizing already vulnerable groups.

The creators of cringe compilations often exploited the vulnerability of individuals featured in the videos, capitalizing on their perceived social awkwardness or unconventional interests for views and engagement. This practice perpetuated a culture of online bullying and harassment, as individuals were publicly mocked and ridiculed for their perceived differences. The compilations often included content featuring individuals with unconventional appearances or those deemed "unattractive" by societal standards, further perpetuating harmful stereotypes and prejudices.

The impact of cringe compilations extended beyond the individuals featured in the videos, contributing to a culture of intolerance and hostility towards those who expressed themselves in ways that deviated from social norms. The normalization of cringe culture and the associated online harassment had lasting effects on the mental health and well-being of many individuals, especially members of marginalized social groups.

Influence of Internet Personalities

The rise of cringe culture was significantly fueled by the growing popularity of certain internet personalities who engaged in the public mockery and ridicule of individuals and communities deemed "cringeworthy." These YouTube personalities amassed large followings and exerted considerable influence over their audiences, further normalizing and perpetuating cringe culture.

One notable example is LeafyIsHere, a YouTuber who gained notoriety in the mid-2010s for his commentary videos that often targeted and denigrated individuals and communities he perceived as "cringe." His videos frequently involved reacting to content created by others, using derogatory language and belittling their appearance, interests, or behavior. This practice attracted a large audience and contributed to a climate of online harassment and bullying, as Leafy's followers often engaged in similar behavior towards those targeted in his videos. Another prominent figure associated with cringe culture is GradeAUnderA, a YouTuber known for his critical commentary on social justice movements and those he labeled "SJWs." His videos often ridiculed and mocked individuals and communities advocating for social justice causes, encouraging cyberbullying against those perceived as overly concerned with political correctness and equality.

Their actions often have direct consequences for those targeted, even if these videos often framed as "entertainment," "free speech," or "social commentary." The public shaming and humiliation they experienced often led to online harassment, emotional distress, and the suppression of their true identities. The fear of being featured in a cringe compilation or becoming the target of one of these personalities led many people to censor themselves and avoid expressing their true interests or beliefs online.

Cringe Subreddits

A screenshot of r/Cringetopia (2019-2022), a now private subreddit, was once a hub for sharing and mocking content deemed "cringeworthy." Via Internet Archive.

The influence of Reddit on the development and spread of "cringe culture" is undeniable. The platform's structure, which focuses on communities known as "subreddits" dedicated to specific topics and interests, provided fertile ground for the cultivation of cringe culture. Subreddits such as r/cringe and r/cringepics, created in the early-2010s, quickly gained popularity as hubs for sharing content deemed "cringeworthy." The anonymity provided by Reddit further exacerbated the problem, as users felt emboldened to participate in hateful and abusive behavior without fear of repercussions. This led to the creation of a toxic online environment where individuals were targeted and harassed for their perceived differences or perceived cringeworthy behavior.

These subreddits were initially intended to evoke empathy for those caught in awkward or embarrassing situations, reflecting the original definition of cringe. However, they quickly devolved into spaces for bullying and harassment. Users would often share screenshots or videos of individuals from various online platforms, exposing them to public ridicule and mockery. This practice often targeted vulnerable individuals, such as young people, those with unconventional interests, or members of marginalized communities.

The influence of Reddit's cringe subreddits extended beyond the platform itself, as the content and terminology used in these communities spread to other social media platforms, often through the reposting of such content on YouTube and iFunny. This also extends to Instagram, where "flop" accounts post pictures of other people's work so that they can be mocked en masse. The term "cringe" became widely used as a pejorative, and the practice of creating and sharing cringe compilations became commonplace. This contributed to the normalization of online bullying and harassment, as individuals were increasingly subjected to public ridicule and shaming for their perceived flaws or unconventional interests.

Spread of Cringe Terminology

The period between 2016 and 2020 was arguably the peak popularity of cringe culture, as evidenced on Google Trends. This coincided with the widespread proliferation of "cringe" content on dedicated subreddits and cringe compilation videos on YouTube. These videos, often featuring individuals or communities deemed "cringeworthy," capitalized on the public shaming and humiliation of others for entertainment purposes. It's worth noting that cringe compilations shared similarities with other popular video genres, such as "try not to laugh" and "epic fail" compilations, but with a crucial distinction: the intent behind cringe compilations was often rooted in malice and harassment rather than lighthearted mockery or empathy for the persons caught in embarrasing moments. These videos frequently targeted marginalized communities and individuals, whether it was racial, ableist, body-related, or interest-based, exploiting their perceived vulnerabilities for views and engagement.

The content featured in cringe compilations varied widely, often including fan-made content from platforms like DeviantArt, which was mocked for featuring unconventional themes or interests. Fandoms, such as those surrounding Sonic the Hedgehog, Five Nights at Freddy's, and My Little Pony, Minecraft, and furry communities, were frequently targeted, with dedicated accounts and communities such as subreddits created solely for the purpose of mocking and ridiculing their members.

The spread of cringe terminology and the popularity of cringe compilations contributed to a broader culture of online negativity and intolerance. The term "cringe" became widely used as a pejorative, employed to dismiss or denigrate individuals or communities deemed outside the mainstream. This pervasive and often transgressive use of the term normalized the public shaming and humiliation of others, creating a chilling effect on self-expression and contributing to the marginalization of certain groups.

The peak popularity of cringe culture also saw the emergence of a counter-movement advocating for the rejection of public shaming and the celebration of individuality. The phrases "cringe culture is dead" and "I am cringe, but I am free" gained traction on platforms like Tumblr, TikTok, and DeviantArt, signifying a pushback against the negativity and intolerance associated with cringe culture. This movement was formed by the people the term is meant to demean in order to reclaim the term "cringe."

The Rise of Ragebait

In the early 2020s, a new wave of content creators emerged who utilized "ragebait" tactics to gain notoriety and fuel cringe culture. Ragebait involves intentionally creating content designed to provoke strong emotional responses, particularly anger and outrage, from viewers. These creators often exaggerate the very aspects of cringe culture that were already being mocked and ridiculed, further amplifying the negativity and hostility associated with the phenomenon. This may include

One prominent example is Meowbahh, a "PNGtuber" who gained notoriety for their deliberately offensive and provocative online behavior. Meowbahh engaged in various actions designed to elicit outrage, including using racial slurs, making rape jokes, and encouraging self-harm among their audience, which reportedly consisted largely of minors. Despite facing criticism and backlash for her actions, Meowbahh and her supporters often defended their behavior as "ragebait," claiming it was intended to be satirical or ironic.

This type of ragebait, however, blurs the lines between "satire" and genuinely harmful behavior. The concept of irony and satire has often been weaponized by ragebaiters to justify their actions, shielding them from criticism and accountability. While some may argue that it's simply a form of exaggerated performance art, the impact on those targeted can be significant. Ragebaiters like Meowbahh contributed to the normalization of online harassment and the suppression of self-expression by amplifying the very aspects of cringe culture that were already causing harm.

The "Dreamsexual" flag, a controversial symbol that originated as a form of online trolling and mockery directed towards marginalized groups, particularly those within the LGBTQ+ community. It exemplifies how fabricated identities can be weaponized to fuel "cringe culture" and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

Ragebait tactics can also involve the creation of fake online personas that deliberately embody exaggerated or offensive stereotypes. This includes the weaponization of personas that may claim to belong to multiple marginalized groups (e.g., identifying as a multiracial, transgender, neurodivergent individual with various marginalized sexual orientations) or invent new, nonsensical identities (such as "Dreamsexual," a troll sexuality based on the YouTuber Dream, or "Dracosexual," based on Draco Malfoy from Harry Potter). This "identity trolling" fuels cringe culture by exploiting and mocking the experiences of marginalized groups, trivializing their identities and struggles for the sake of generating outrage and attention. Moreover, this often incites harassment from individuals who already harbor prejudice against these marginalized groups, as the exaggerated or fabricated identities become a target for their existing biases.

For example, a fake ragebait persona claiming to be transgender might deliberately misrepresent the experiences of transgender individuals, confirming the pre-existing transphobic beliefs of the audience and fueling further harassment. Similarly, a persona claiming to be neurodivergent might engage in behaviors that reinforce harmful stereotypes about autism and ADHD, leading to increased discrimination and prejudice against neurodivergent individuals. This manipulation of identity for the purpose of ragebait not only harms the individuals targeted but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces societal biases against marginalized groups.

Target Communities and Characteristics

Frequently Targeted Groups

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The "Mary Sue" Trope

Kagami Kawaiine, an infamous Fanloid character based on a poor recolor of Hatsune Miku.

The "Mary Sue" trope, often used to describe idealized and unrealistic fictional characters, has become closely associated with cringe culture. These characters, typically female, are portrayed as flawless, quirky, and overpowered, and sometimes possess a tragic backstory with romanticized elements. The concept of a Mary Sue character heavily influenced internet fandoms, fanfiction, and animation memes during the 2010s.

The term is often used in a pejorative manner because these characters are seen as unrealistic and unrelatable, and often deemed "cringeworthy." Some Mary Sue characters were created as an attempt to stand out, while others were made by internet trolls to outrage people online (Parody Sue). The masculine equivalent of a Mary Sue is a Gary Stu, and its polar opposite is an Anti-Sue.

Mary Sue from A Trekkie's Tale (1973) by Paula Smith, the first character described as such.

The term "Mary Sue" was first used in 1973, originating from a satirical Star Trek fanfiction story called "A Trekkie's Tale," written by Paula Smith. The story parodied the idealized female characters common in Star Trek fanfiction at the time. The term gained popularity and was later applied to characters in all genres of fiction. It is now often used to criticize characters perceived as poorly written or unrealistic.

Subtypes include:

• The "Quirky" trope, as the name implies, is based on characters who have a heavy amount of "quirks" or "special" characteristics. This can encompass magical powers, bright clashing colors, tragic yet romanticized backstories, talking to animals, fantasy elements like wings or animal ears, and perhaps some inspiration from Japanese pop culture, notably anime and manga. Sometimes these characters might also have heterochromia, a rare eye condition. It is by far the most popular subtrope, serving as the core of the stereotype. Some infamous pieces of media that portray the "quirky" Mary Sue include Ensign Sue Must Die!, Nyan~ Neko Sugar Girls, and the Fanloid character Mikunana Yumene. Inside the fanfiction and digital art communities, these types of traits are criticized because they don't build cohesive characters and simply collect "random" traits without justification rather than creating a deeper personality. Sometimes, when these fictional characters are self-inserts of the author, they might simply reflect their desires and likes.
• The "Edgy" archetype is mainly associated with media deemed "edgy," such as the Creepypasta, Twilight, and Undertale fandoms. The most used color palette is red, black, gray, and purple, and certain species associated with the trope are vampires, demons, werewolves, or killers with supernatural powers. Other common traits are angst and rebelliousness, darkness for darkness' sake, excessive piercings and tattoos, ripped clothing, glowing neon eyes, etc.
• A "Gary Stu" is described as a "perfect" male character that every character within a fictional universe loves and has exaggerated traits such as being invincible or being the only powerful character. Despite this, this trope seems to receive slightly less criticism and is not as prevalent as Mary Sues in popular media, likely because of certain gender roles and stereotypes.
• An "Anti-Sue" is a character trope that inverts the traits stereotypically associated with Mary Sue characters. While Mary Sues are written to be absolutely perfect and flawless, the Anti-Sue is a heavily flawed character with many weaknesses and insecurities, and might be portrayed as "stupid" or "repulsive." These characters tend to be self-inserts, written by authors in fear of accidentally creating a "Mary Sue" character. However, it's ironic because such a character still counts as a Mary Sue since they are still talked about and focused on by all the other characters in the story, and their characteristics are taken to a harsh extreme.

Internet trolls have long exploited the Mary Sue archetype to draw attention on social media and further harm the reputation of the animation meme community. On TVTropes, characters or troll accounts that over-exaggerate the original trope are called "Parody Sues." Here are some examples:

• The "Obsessed Fangirl" Mary Sue trope emerged in the early and mid-2010s when internet trolls created social media accounts, particularly on YouTube, where they pretended to be overly obsessed fans of specific fictional characters, such as Sans from Undertale or Bendy from Bendy and the Ink Machine. These accounts frequently posted animation memes featuring their original characters (OCs) alongside these popular characters, often claiming a possessive relationship with them. This behavior gained notoriety, leading to the creation of "cringe compilation" videos that mocked and ridiculed these "obsessed fangirls." However, this negative attention was often the trolls' intended goal.
• In the mid-2010s, some internet trolls created accounts with Mary Sue personas and began tracing art made by other users on social media platforms like YouTube and the now-defunct Sony Sketch. They would often screenshot or download others' drawings and animation memes without permission, trace over them, and then publish the art as their own without crediting the original artists. This practice, known as "recoloring," became particularly controversial in the animation meme community, especially among Spanish-speaking YouTubers. One notorious example of an art tracer with a Mary Sue persona is a Mexican YouTuber called "Darkita Kawaii." She adopted a childish personality, intentionally using poor grammar, and trolled the FNAFHS fandom by tracing art and fabricating stories about her personal life and various serious issues. Similar to the "Obsessed Fangirl" trope, she also claimed to be infatuated with Bart Simpson. The account has been inactive since 2018, and while the identity and motives behind Darkita Kawaii remain unknown, some of her former friends claim that it was a social experiment.

With the growing popularity of the animation meme community during the mid-2010s, the Mary Sue trope quickly became one of the most criticized fictional archetypes. Many cringe compilation videos were made on YouTube, and troll accounts, such as the infamous "Sans fangirls," further fueled the criticism. These characters were criticized for being unrealistically perfect, boring, and poorly written (such as lacking weaknesses). Critics also pointed out how Mary Sue characters are often created in an attempt to overshadow other characters, and many fanfiction authors may take offense if these characters are criticized.

However, some pop culture critics have counter-criticized the archetype. Those who popularized the term "Mary Sue" received criticism for potentially being sexist, as it plays on certain societal norms like women not being traditionally allowed to have power fantasies. Overpowered male characters in popular media receive less criticism than female ones. Some argue there's nothing wrong with teenage girls liking Mary Sue characters, just as it's socially acceptable for boys to enjoy superhero movies. Despite the existence of "Gary Stu" characters as the masculine counterpart, overpowered male characters still receive less criticism, resulting in double standards. Other similar phenomena that have been criticized for having misogynistic roots include the "I'm not like other girls" trend during the mid-2010s.

Causes

One factor contributing to cringe culture is the perceived oversaturation of certain fandoms or trends. When a fandom or trend achieves mainstream visibility and dominates online spaces, it can generate resentment among those outside or even within the fandom. This isn't solely about popularity but rather the relentless and inescapable presence of the content, which can feel overwhelming and lead to fatigue.

Examples include the explosion of fandoms like Five Nights at Freddy's, Minecraft, and Fortnite in the mid-to-late 2010s. These games, initially embraced with enthusiasm, saw a deluge of content—let's plays, fan animations, music videos, and merchandise—that dominated online platforms and algorithms. This constant bombardment, particularly when aimed at a younger demographic, can create a sense of fatigue and resentment among those outside the fandom, or, as some describe it, "being shoved down one's throat." Another example would be the recent and unexpected rapid surge in popularity of the webseries The Amazing Digital Circus in 2023.

This phenomenon is similar to the concept of "overplayed" songs, where a song's popularity leads to its constant repetition across various media, transforming it from an enjoyable experience into an irritant. The sheer frequency of exposure creates a feeling of being forced to engage with the content, regardless of personal preference. In both cases, the initial enjoyment is diminished by the overwhelming presence of the content.

Cringe culture, in this context, becomes a way to push back against this perceived oversaturation. It's a means of reclaiming individual taste and expressing discontent with the overwhelming presence of mainstream trends. The target isn't necessarily the content itself but the feeling of being suffocated by its ubiquity.

Another major contributing factor to cringe culture is the role of insecurity and the desire for validation among those who participate in it. For some individuals, mocking or ridiculing others deemed "cringeworthy" can be a way to assert their own sense of superiority or belonging. By distancing themselves from those perceived as different or unconventional, they seek to validate their own identity and social standing.

This behavior can stem from feelings of insecurity or inadequacy, where individuals compensate for their own perceived shortcomings by denigrating others. Cringe culture provides an outlet for these feelings, allowing individuals to project their insecurities onto others and feel a sense of validation by comparison.

Additionally, participating in cringe culture can be a way to gain social acceptance within certain online communities. By conforming to the prevailing norms and engaging in the mockery of those deemed "cringeworthy" for their differences, they can signal their belonging and avoid becoming targets themselves. This creates a cycle of negativity, where people reinforce harmful behaviors to maintain their social standing within the group.

Harmless Individuality vs. Perceived "Cringe"

A central tension within cringe culture lies in the clash between harmless expressions of individuality and the subjective perception of what constitutes "cringeworthy" behavior. Cringe culture often targets individuals who express their interests, hobbies, or identities in ways that deviate from perceived social norms or mainstream tastes. This can include anything from enthusiastic participation in fandoms to unconventional fashion choices to the open expression of emotions or vulnerabilities.

The issue arises when harmless expressions of individuality are misconstrued as "cringeworthy" and subjected to mockery, ridicule, and even harassment and serious offenses like doxxing. This can have a disturbingly strong effect on self-expression, particularly among young people and those from marginalized communities who may already feel insecure or vulnerable about expressing their true selves.

The subjective nature of "cringe" further complicates the issue. What one person finds cringeworthy, another might find endearing or even inspiring. This subjectivity makes it difficult to establish clear boundaries between harmless individuality and genuinely offensive or harmful behavior.

Moreover, cringe culture often relies on the policing of social norms and the enforcement of conformity. Those who deviate from these norms, even in harmless ways, risk being labeled as "cringe" and ostracized from online communities. This can create a stifling environment where users feel pressured to suppress their true selves and conform to avoid ridicule or judgment.

Online Harassment and Bullying

Cringe culture frequently manifests as online harassment and bullying, targeting individuals for their perceived "cringeworthy" behavior or interests. This harassment can take various forms, including cyberbullying, hate speech, doxxing, and targeted harassment campaigns.

Cyberbullying involves using electronic communication to bully a person, typically through intimidating or threatening messages. It can also include public shaming, spreading rumors, or posting humiliating content. Hate speech involves discriminatory language or hate symbols targeting individuals or groups based on their characteristics, such as race, gender, or sexual orientation. Doxxing involves maliciously exposing an individual's personal information online, leading to further harassment or threats. Targeted harassment campaigns involve coordinated efforts to harass and intimidate a specific person or community.

Examples of online harassment related to cringe culture include:

• DeviantArt: Users mocking artists for their lack of experience or skill.
• YouTube: Cringe compilations publicly ridiculing individuals or communities.
• Other social media platforms (Instagram, Reddit, TikTok): Comment sections weaponized to bully and harass individuals for their perceived "cringeworthy" behavior or interests.
• Other communities (Discord, specific forums, etc.): Targeted harassment campaigns against fandoms or subcultures deemed "cringeworthy," such as fans of certain games or shows.

The subjective nature of "cringe" can make it difficult to distinguish between harmless mockery and genuine harassment. However, any behavior that targets individuals with hateful messages, threats, or the intent to cause harm should be considered harassment and addressed accordingly.

Grey Areas

The concept of cringe culture encompasses several grey areas where the line between acceptable criticism and targeted harassment can be difficult to define. These grey areas often involve subjective interpretations of what constitutes "cringeworthy" behavior and the extent to which criticism or mockery is considered acceptable.

One example is the criticism of certain communities or fandoms, such as the furry or brony community, for practices or content that some consider inappropriate or harmful. While constructive criticism of problematic elements within a community can be valid, it's important to distinguish it from blanket condemnation or harassment of the entire community. For instance, criticizing the prevalence of inappropriate or sexually suggestive fanart within the brony fandom, which has caused concerns due to My Little Pony's young target demographic, is fundamentally different from labeling all bronies as "cringe" and subjecting members of the community to online harassment.

Another grey area involves online communities or platforms that criticize or mock content deemed "cringeworthy" but do not endorse harassment or bullying. An example is the subreddit r/GachaLifeCringe, which focused on criticizing cringeworthy content created using the Gacha Life app. While the subreddit engaged in mockery and criticism, it also actively discouraged harassment and sought to educate Gacha Life users about online safety, particularly during periods of coordinated harassment campaigns. These efforts to discourage harassment and promote online safety are a responsible approach to critiquing online culture, one that distinguishes it from the more harmful aspects of cringe culture.

These examples show that cringe culture isn't always clear-cut. It's important to consider the type of criticism being offered. Constructive criticism, which aims to improve or address specific issues, is different from destructive criticism, which is intended to harm or demean. For example, offering constructive criticism about problematic elements within the furry or Gacha fandoms is not the same as harassing or bullying individuals within those fandoms. It's important to distinguish the intentions and impact of the criticism to determine whether it falls under cringe culture.

It's also important to note that most mainstream fandoms have problems or "weird" people within their communities, and that generalizations are not helpful in discourse. Focusing on specific issues within a community, rather than making broad generalizations about the entire group, allows for a more accurate and fair discussion of fandom culture.

Criticisms and Counter-Arguments

Under Construction

See also

• 2010s Internet: Many users who reclaim cringe culture often do so by incorporating elements of 2010s meme culture. This reflects the cyclical nature of internet trends and the reappropriation of once-mocked elements for ironic or nostalgic purposes.
• 2020 TikTok: Refers to the trends and communities that emerged on TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic. This period saw a significant increase in the platform's popularity and influence, along with the rise of various subcultures and aesthetics associated with it. Some of these trends and communities were targeted by cringe culture, while others actively challenged and subverted it.
• Animecore: An aesthetic inspired by 2000s anime, reflecting a period when anime fandom was less mainstream and socially acceptable in the West.
• Brony: A subculture of adult hardcore fans of the animated show "My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic," often associated with "cringe culture." Its origins on 4chan and problematic incidents within the fandom during the 2010s further stained its reputation.
• Camp: An aesthetic style and sensibility that regards something as appealing because of its bad taste and ironic value. Camp aesthetics disrupt many of the traditional ideas about what is considered "good taste" and can be seen as a way of reclaiming and celebrating the "cringeworthy."
• Emo: Members of the emo subculture have sometimes been targeted by "cringe culture" due to their focus on emotional expression and distinct dark fashion.
• Furry: A fandom centered around anthropomorphic animal characters, often subjected to mockery and "cringe culture" associations.
• Hyperpop: A music genre characterized by high-pitched vocals, distorted synths, and maximalist production. Some hyperpop artists and subgenres actively subvert and challenge notions of "cringe" through their experimental approach to music and aesthetics.
• Ita: In car culture, "itasha" (literally meaning "painful" or "cringeworthy" car in Japanese) refers to a style of extreme car modification often considered gaudy or excessive, usually featuring characters from video games and anime.
• Kitsch: Art, objects, or design considered to be in poor taste because of excessive garishness or sentimentality, but sometimes appreciated in an ironic or knowing way. Kitsch can be seen as a form of "cringe" that is embraced and celebrated for its over-the-top and often humorous qualities.
• Larpercore: A subculture of Discord users who engage in harassment campaigns and transgressions against perceived "cringe" fandoms. (Not to be confused with LARPing.)
• Lolita: A Japanese street fashion with a focus on Victorian-era and Rococo aesthetics. The "ita" phenomenon within the Lolita community highlights the exclusion and criticism of those deemed to violate its fashion norms, especially on certain forums.
• Nightcore: A music genre involving sped-up and high-pitched versions of songs, sometimes associated with "cringe culture" due to its association with anime images and a perceived underage fanbase.
• Otherkin: Individuals who identify as non-human, often facing ridicule and accusations of "cringe."
• Pastel Gore: An art style that combines cuteness and pastel colors with graphic depictions of gore and violence. This juxtaposition of contrasting elements can be seen as a way of subverting expectations and challenging notions of "cringe."
• Pokemón: A Chilean youth subculture from the mid-2000s that blended elements of Emo, Otaku, Hip-Hop, and Punk cultures. They faced significant online harassment, which contributed to their decline.
• Scenecore: An aesthetic inspired by the late-2000s and early-2010s emo and scene subcultures, often associated with bright colors, bold fashion, and a rejection or reclaiming of "cringe culture."
• Weeaboo: A term used to describe a non-Japanese person overly obsessed with Japanese culture, often from a superficial way. It often carries a pejorative connotation.
• Yandere: Japanese term for a character, typically female, who is romantically obsessed with someone to the point of violence or psychosis. The Yandere trope, often found in anime, manga, and video games, has been both popularized and criticized overseas, with some associating it with unhealthy relationship dynamics and "cringeworthy" behavior.