Exploring Visual Social Media Accessibility for China’s Visually Impaired: A Grounded Theory Study of TikTok Usage

Abstract

This study aims to explore the real-life experiences, challenges, and needs of visually impaired individuals when using visual social media platforms, with TikTok as a case study. The research investigates the accessibility barriers faced by this group and proposes optimization strategies for inclusive design. Adopting a grounded theory methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight visually impaired participants. The interview transcripts were analyzed through a three-stage coding process, with the core category identified as “Accessibility Challenges in Visual Social Media Usage”. The findings reveal four major obstacles encountered by visually impaired users: (1) technical adaptation barriers, (2) contradictions in the information ecosystem, (3) deprivation of digital rights, and (4) delayed response mechanisms. To enhance digital inclusion, this study recommends that platform developers adhere to universal accessibility design principles, while policymakers and society at large should prioritize the digital rights of visually impaired individuals, strengthen policy enforcement, and improve regulatory oversight. These measures can help bridge the digital divide and foster a more inclusive digital society.