In this podcast, the hosts delve into the 'pick me' phenomenon, discussing its origin and definition, as well as its popularization on platforms like TikTok and Twitter. They reflect on their own childhood influences, explore competition and insecurity among women, and examine the pressure to conform to beauty standards. The concept of 'picme girls' is also explored, along with the behavior of certain reality TV show contestants who claim to not get along with other women. Overall, the podcast offers a thought-provoking analysis of internalized misogyny and societal expectations.
The Pick Me archetype originated on Black Twitter as a criticism towards women who adhere to traditional gender roles and seek validation from men.
The Pick Me archetype reflects internalized misogyny and perpetuates societal expectations of femininity.
Psychological oppression and cultural conditioning contribute to women accepting their own oppression and limit their agency.
Deep dives
Origins of the Pick Me archetype
The Pick Me archetype originated on Black Twitter in 2016 as a criticism towards a type of woman observed in their communities. These women were seen as overly dedicated to men, adhering to traditional gender stereotypes, and seeking validation from men. The archetype has since evolved and gained popularity on TikTok, with videos mocking girls who try to be different or who prioritize men's interests over their own.
The Duality of Pick Me
There are two distinct versions of the Pick Me archetype. The first version is characterized by a woman who is very devoted to men, embodies traditional gender roles, and seeks validation from men by putting down other women. The second version is more related to the concept of being 'not like other girls' and trying to stand out by rejecting traditional femininity. Both versions exhibit elements of internalized misogyny and perpetuate societal expectations.
Critiques and Gender Essentialism
The Pick Me archetype has faced criticism for its gender essentialist nature, as it reinforces the idea that women must conform to certain feminine signifiers to be accepted. This critique points out that femininity is not inherent to womanhood and that women should have the freedom to express themselves however they choose without judgment. The archetype also reflects the influence of capitalism and consumerism, as certain products and behaviors are marketed as empowering while others are vilified.
Psychological Oppression and Cultural Conditioning
The podcast explores the concept of psychological oppression and cultural conditioning as discussed by feminist philosopher Sandra Lee Bartky. Bartky's essay on psychological oppression highlights how women have been culturally conditioned to accept their own oppression. The podcast discusses examples of psychological oppression, such as women adhering to societal beauty standards and internalizing misogynistic beliefs. It emphasizes how psychological oppression perpetuates the status quo and limits women's agency.
The Pick Me Phenomenon and Female Competition
The podcast delves into the concept of 'pick me' behavior and its relation to internalized misogyny and female competition. It discusses online trends and videos mocking 'pick me' behavior, which often involve women emphasizing their supposed inferiority or diminishing themselves to appeal to men. The podcast touches on the criticism faced by women who exhibit 'pick me' traits, highlighting the tension between women's complicated relationships with each other and the pressure to conform to feminist ideals. It suggests that focusing on aesthetics and criticizing women for their choices may hinder the larger goal of dismantling patriarchy.
No offence but... women are too much drama. No but seriously, we're living in a time of 'pick me' inception. Pick me's are calling other women pick me's, in response those women become pick me's and call the pick me's pick me's, and now nobody can decipher who the real pick me is. Hannah and Maia try and get to the bottom of this conundrum. Has the 'pick me' always been around or did early 2000s chick flicks do such a number on us that now we have no choice but to clap back? Or maybe this is just a case of good ole' psychological oppression.
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