Thirst trap cause attention seeking
Usage of the term
Often, the term thirst trap describes an attractive picture of an individual that they post online.Thirst trap can also describe a digital heartthrob. For instance, Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has been described as a political thirst trap.It has also been described as a modern form of "fishing for compliments".Motivation
There can be several motivations behind thirst trapping. People can seek "likes" and comments on social media which can provide a temporary boost in self-esteem and validation. Posting a thirst trap can also be a way to express sexuality. Thirst traps can contribute to personal branding as well. Sometimes, there can be a financial benefit for sharing thirst traps. Some post thirst traps as a way to cope with emotional distress, such as after a breakup. Furthermore, these images can be used to spite a former lover. Sharing a thirst trap has also been used as a way to connect in times of social isolation (e.g. COVID-19 pandemic).From a physiological standpoint, endorphins and neurotransmitters like oxytocin and dopamine can be released with the process of sharing thirst traps, leading to a sense of pleasure and an ambiguous or masturbatory alternative for actual physical sexual contact.
trigger bring about initiate provoke instigate