Analysis of the Forms and Motives of “Hyper Honest” Communication as Self Disclosure in the Tiktok Comment Section @Helobahgas

Abstract

Purpose –  This study aims to conduct an in depth analysis of the various forms of hyper-honest behavior that emerge as extreme forms of self disclosure, as well as to identify the communicative motives that drive individuals to share emotionally charged personal information or experiences in the comment section of the @helobagas account.

Method – This study employed a descriptive qualitative method. Primary data were collected through observation of the @helobagas comment section, digital documentation, and semi structured in depth interviews with six active TikTok users selected via purposive sampling specifically, those identified as sharing their emotional experiences on that account. Secondary data were obtained through a review of relevant literature. Data analysis was conducted through the stages of data reduction, narrative data presentation, and drawing conclusions, the validity of which was tested using triangulation techniques.

Findings – The practice of hyper-honesty in the @helobagas comment section manifests in three main forms: the disclosure of traumatic experiences, the intense expression of emotions, and the revelation of personal vulnerability, with the disclosure of traumatic experiences being the most common form. Despite engaging in highly open disclosure, users continued to maintain control over their privacy boundaries by concealing their true identities. Four main communication motives were also identified: the need to be heard and understood, the search for emotional support, the attainment of emotional relief, and the emotional connection to the content. Emotional connection with @helobagas’ narrative-reflective content emerged as the dominant motive triggering the collapse of privacy boundaries and transforming the comment section into an alternative emotional support system.