Over the past couple of weeks, you may have noticed loads of TikTok videos trending on social media. As someone fairly new to the platform, seeing dance challenges and quirky video editing has been pretty entertaining. However, there’s a TikTok challenge going around on Twitter that’s received mixed reactions.
Called the “purse challenge,” this TikTok trend features a woman testing the patience of her partner by hitting him with her bag or other items. Sat in a parked car, the woman “accidentally” hits her partner on the head as she reaches for objects like her purse, shoeboxes and other stuff usually found in the backseat of a car.
Although meant to be a harmless “prank,” this has sparked mixed reactions, with some finding it hilarious or cute while some pointing out that this trend normalizes domestic violence. This is a valid concern because domestic violence against men happens more often than you think—in both heterosexual and same sex relationships. Figures have shown that one in three victims of domestic violence are male. This hasn’t been talked about enough since many male victims are afraid of being judged and not believed because it goes against the societal expectation that men can only be the aggressors, and being hit is seen as a sign of weakness, thus, discouraging them from speaking up and seeking help.
Even if this is just a prank, it doesn’t eliminate the possibility of unintentionally crossing the line and hurting each other. While most of the guys featured on these TikTok videos haven’t reacted badly to the prank, this doesn’t mean that boundaries haven’t been disrespected.
But this doesn’t mean we’re demonizing rough housing or playing pranks on your partner either. Teasing or play fighting can be a sign of a healthy relationship, with studies revealing it to be a reflection of how comfortable you are with your partner. You can build trust in the relationship and become closer to each other by having fun through these inside jokes and pranks. There’s nothing wrong with being playful with your partner, and if some light roughhousing is how the both of you get off, then sure, that’s completely your business. Just make sure that you don’t cross the line and be conscious about what you post even if you think it’s okay for you and your partner.
Art by Dana Calvo
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