Social media has become deeply embedded into everyday life. But numerous studies have illuminated its damaging effects on body image and mental health, especially among teenagers and young adults. How exactly is social media usage negatively impacting body image and what can be done to address these issues?
The Rise of Unrealistic Beauty Standards
A major problem is social media showcases endless filtered and edited photos that portray an unrealistic and distorted idea of beauty. Influencers, celebrities and everyday users utilize airbrushing, editing apps, flattering angles, lighting, and more to put forth an enhanced image online. This filtered content sets impossibly high beauty standards that most cannot attain without surgery, extensive makeup and styling.
Read more: Selfies May Lead Many to Seek Plastic Surgery
Negative Social Comparison
These inflated beauty ideals lead to negative social comparison. People, especially vulnerable youth, constantly compare themselves to the flawless yet fake images on apps like Instagram and TikTok. This breeds negative self-talk, criticism of one’s own body or appearance, and deep dissatisfaction. Upward social comparison and fear of missing out (FOMO) also lead some users to feel their own lives and looks continuously fall short of their peers.
Bullying and Toxic Commentary
In addition to distorted images, social media also enables direct bullying around appearance and body shaming.
Derogatory, toxic comments attacking someone’s looks or body are unfortunately common online. Marginalized groups may be disproportionately targeted. “Fitspiration” and diet/detox content, while aiming to inspire, can also unwittingly promote unhealthy behaviors by reinforcing excessive thinness/exercise.
Steps Platforms Are Taking
Some platforms have begun to acknowledge these issues. Instagram now hides likes in some countries to reduce competition. TikTok and other apps limit promotion of cosmetic surgery and dangerous weight loss products. Instagram highlights more body positive imagery and diverse figures.
However, critics argue social media companies still have far to go in meaningfully addressing how their platforms damage mental health and body image.
The Path Forward
We must have open conversations about social media’s impacts and place more pressure on companies to enact change. On an individual level, users should reflect on social media’s influence and try limiting consumption to protect their mental health. Promoting authentic empowerment and rejecting unrealistic beauty standards will help foster a healthier online community. But improving social media’s effects on body image and self-esteem requires effort from all stakeholders.
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