Pathostreaming through the eyes of a viewer: An attempt to analyze the phenomenon using Elżbieta Gawin’s virtual activity as an example

Abstract

Internet is a media space where you can encounter various forms of expression from virtual creators. It also provides a platform for promoting negative behaviors, such as patostreaming. The research used the virtual activities of Elżbieta Gawin as an example, identifying them as patostreaming content. A media content analysis was conducted, referencing the Lasswell model and the theory of uses and gratifications as understood by Stanisław Michalczyk. Based on this method, the behaviors and reception motivations of viewers forming a specific community around the discussed patostreaming activity were examined. Additionally, a selection and categorization of messages appearing on live streams conducted by EG, as well as on the official Discord channel, was performed. An attempt was also made to characterize the profiles of the audience. The analysis shows that the reception of content presented by EG is mainly negative. The author's attempt to analyze the phenomenon of patostreaming from the viewer's perspective may serve as a starting point for in-depth research for media and communication researchers, as well as for psychologists and educators focusing on virtual threats in their work.