Analysis of the Formation and Distribution Logic of Influencer Economic Value Based on the Attention Economy

With the deep integration of social media and mobile internet technologies, the influencer economy has evolved into an emerging economic paradigm centered on content creators, supported by platforms as infrastructure, and driven by traffic monetization. In the context of the influencer economy, the construction of digital identity has transcended mere self-presentation, evolving into a strategic resource that intertwines emotional identification, commercial monetization, and cultural practice. This paper focuses on the construction of digital identity and the power dynamics between creators and platforms within the influencer economy. Employing a literature-based methodology, it explores how content creators utilize visual symbols and emotional narratives to craft a "performative authenticity," and how platform algorithms influence traffic distribution and the redistribution of value. The study finds that creators engage in emotional labor to build trust with their audiences, while platforms leverage algorithmic advantages to reinforce head effects, leading to the marginalization of small and mid-tier creators. These dynamics reveal the dual nature of digital identity as both economic and cultural capital. This review offers theoretical insights into the operational mechanisms of the influencer economy and contributes to discussions on platform governance reform.