Impact of Idealized Body Images on Adolescents

Research Question

“How does exposure to idealized body images in traditional media vs. social media impact body satisfaction and self-esteem among adolescent girls?”

This study question focuses on the effects of media exposure to idealized body images on the wellness of teenage females, which is an important topic that requires more research. Adolescent girls are particularly prone to body dissatisfaction and poor self-esteem; according to some research, up to 80% of them are dissatisfied with the way they look. Some of the negative psychological consequences that can result from poor body image include anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and other harmful effects. It is crucial to understand the potential additive factors to counteract these impacts. One such aspect is the unrealistic and idealized body images portrayed by the media. It would be interesting to carry out research that targets this media effect as a specific objective relating to body satisfaction and self-esteem.

The study question aims to advance our understanding of how media exposure to idealized body images influences teenage girls’ self-esteem and satisfaction with their bodies. It is exciting to compare potential differences between social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok and traditional media types like TV and magazines. This topic is quite crucial because studies show that most teenage girls have negative body image issues, which can affect their mental health and lead to disorders such as depression and eating disorders. Developing a deeper understanding of the potential role of various media representations of idealized beauty standards in these detrimental consequences will help programs that foster healthy body image and self-perceptions during this critical developing stage.

Previous studies have shown a direct correlation between exposure to conventional media’s idealized thin images and beauty standards, such as those seen in fashion magazines and on TV, and detrimental effects on teenage girls and women’s self-esteem and body satisfaction. Experimental studies have shown decreased body satisfaction after viewing thin media models. The sociocultural model explains these effects through social comparison, where girls view themselves unfavorably compared to media ideals. While these effects are well-documented, most research has focused on traditional media exposure. Though initial studies suggest similar consequences, little is known about how impacts may differ with social media use. Comparing standard vs. social media will build on existing evidence to further understand how media portrayals contribute to body image issues among teenage girls.

This research question allows for an innovative investigation that directly compares the potential differential effects of traditional media versus social media on body image issues among adolescent girls. While extensive prior research has established links between exposure to idealized imagery in magazines, TV, and advertising and adverse body-related outcomes like dissatisfaction and low self-esteem, the vast majority has explicitly focused on traditional media. More attention should be paid to the impacts of the proliferation of idealized images and peer comparisons on social platforms like Instagram and TikTok, which have become ubiquitous in teenage girls’ lives.

This question aims to fill a significant gap by examining both traditional and social media influences side-by-side, using the same methodology and sample. This will provide new insights into whether effects differ across media types this vulnerable population frequents. Understanding similarities and differences has important practical implications, as interventions may need to be tailored accordingly. For example, promoting media literacy around photo manipulation may benefit social media, while advocacy for diverse body representation could target traditional outlets. Comparing media forms on the same outcomes will unveil valuable new knowledge to enhance support measures and policies addressing the critical issue of body image among adolescent girls.

References

Fioravanti, G., Bocci Benucci, S., Ceragioli, G., & Casale, S. (2022). How the exposure to beauty ideals on social networking sites influences body image: A systematic review of experimental studies. Adolescent research review, 7(3), 419-458.

Jiotsa, Barbara, et al. “Social Media Use and Body Image Disorders: Association between Frequency of Comparing One’s Own Physical Appearance to that of People Being Followed on Social Media and Body Dissatisfaction and Drive for Thinness.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 18, no. 6, 11 Mar. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8001450/.

Vuong, An T., et al. “Social Media Use and Body Dissatisfaction in Adolescents: The Moderating Role of Thin- and Muscular-Ideal Internalisation.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 18, no. 24, 15 Dec. 2021, p. 13222, www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/24/13222, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182413222.

Yang, H., Wang, J. J., Tng, G. Y., & Yang, S. (2020). Effects of social media and smartphone use on body esteem in female adolescents: Testing a cognitive and affective model. Children, 7(9), 148.