While you wait: An analysis of the It Gets Better Project

This article analyses videos created for the It Gets Better Project as well as comments by their viewers. The authors examined the top 21 videos based on number of views and rising popularity. Upon analysis of the comments, it was noted that the majority of them place the onus on the victim to ‘stick it out’ and wait until they are older for the bullying to stop, as opposed to advocating for support and action by responsible adults or bystanders, or even themselves. In addition, the messages within the videos and the comments rarely offered ideas regarding how to put an end to the bullying or that the bullies should be held responsible for their actions. This article draws attention to the unintended, and sometimes contradictory, messages received even when the goal is support.