MANILA, Philippines — In recent years, many women have turned to social media to post videos of themselves dancing in bikinis or creating provocative content, hoping to improve their financial situation or gain online attention. While a small number have found personal success and economic gain through such content, the trend has quickly been copied by many, resulting in an oversupply of so-called “thirst trap” videos flooding social media platforms.

The worrying part is how this proliferation appears to be shaping public perception, particularly among men. As these videos become ubiquitous, some observers argue that they unintentionally lower the way women are viewed—making sexualized content seem ordinary and easily accessible, reducing its perceived value. The repetitive nature of viral sounds and formats, often viewed humorously or casually, also contributes to desensitization. While creators may enjoy attention, the broader consequence is a societal shift in which women risk being objectified or judged based on viral trends rather than their individuality or achievements.

This situation underscores the tension between personal empowerment and societal impact. On one hand, women may see these posts as a way to assert agency and earn income; on the other hand, oversaturation could inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes and reduce respect for women more broadly. As the saying goes, “the more supply, the cheaper it gets”—a reflection on how abundance can affect perceived value, whether of content or of the people creating it. Ultimately, one question remains: should women participate in viral sexualized content knowing it may influence how society values them, or is personal gain worth the risk to broader perception? (Larawan: Greatist)