Social Media Representation of Disability. A Study on Italian Influencers

This qualitative study aims to explore the role of disability influencers on social media, delving into the challenges they encounter and the positive aspects emerging from their interactions with followers. This study also aims to emphasise the transformative impact of disability influencers on the traditional narrative, challenging stereotypes and promoting a more authentic and inclusive image of people with disabilities. In terms of methodology, the study is based on semi-structured interviews involving three Italian influencers. The study explores various key themes, such as understanding how these influencers navigate the landscape of social media, a detailed examination of the instances of online hatred they have faced through their journey as influencers and their perspectives on sexuality — often a particularly sensitive topic, especially when associated with disability.