Social Media and Body Image – Why You Shouldn’t Believe Everything You See
In today's digital age, it’s pretty much impossible to avoid social media.
Whether you’re scrolling through Instagram, double-tapping on TikTok, or updating your LinkedIn profile, you’re constantly exposed to carefully curated highlight reels of others’ lives.
Now while taking a quick break for a social media deep dive is perfectly fine, I’d be lying if I said I never did it, there is a rather insidious side to it all, particularly when it comes to body image.
Social media, you see, is a powerful influencer – for better or worse.
Of course, this isn’t the first time an external influence has had the ability to impact how we see ourselves or brainwash us into thinking what the ‘ideal’ body is.
In the 00s, it was magazine covers, in the 90s, it was the super models, but surely, we’ve learned from those mistakes by now? Haven’t we?
You know, the mistake of believing those models really were ‘perfect’ with their poreless skin, trendy body shape and flawless… everything. Surely, by now, we all agree and understand that Nicole Richie wasn’t actually “chubby,” or Britney wasn’t “too big” for THAT outfit, Jessica Simpson didn’t have a belly and retouching was the norm.
Sure, we have!
Hindsight is a wonderful thing – but there’s a new body influencer in town and it’s arguably much worse than those glossy covers, because this one we see every – single – day at home, on the move to work and when idly scrolling during your 10 minute tea break.
And, to make matters worse, it’s not just the rich and famous that have the power to influence how we see ourselves, it’s regular people whose lives we follow online.
So, let’s navigate the complex world of social media and body image, backed by psychological insights, to uncover its pitfalls, perks, and how we can find a healthier path forward.
Table of Content
The Dark Side of Social Media
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1. Unrealistic Beauty Standards
Photoshop and filters have made it easy to achieve perfection in a couple of taps, creating an avalanche of images that showcase unattainable beauty standards.
According to a study in the Journal of Eating Disorders , exposure to such idealised images has been directly linked with body dissatisfaction in both men and women. It sets a benchmark that is not just unrealistic but also unhealthy.
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2. Comparison and Competition
As humans, it's natural to compare. But social media transforms this into a full-blown competition.
Suddenly, it’s not just about the vacations or parties; it’s also about body shapes, sizes, and appearances.
Research in the field of social psychology suggests that habitual social media use can increase negative body image by fuelling comparisons that leave individuals feeling inferior and inadequate.
"Photoshop and filters have made it easy to achieve perfection in a couple of taps, creating an avalanche of images that showcase unattainable beauty standards. "
3. Cyberbullying
Then there's the dark troll under the bridge - cyberbullying. Comments can be cruel, and for those already struggling with self-esteem, a mean remark can cut deep. Studies link cyberbullying with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and a poor self-image.
4. Worsening of Body-Image Disorders
For individuals wrestling with body dysmorphic disorders, the pressures of social media can exacerbate their struggles, leading to unhealthy behaviours such as excessive exercising, eating disorders, or even substance abuse.
There Can Be a Light Side Too…
1. Body Positivity
Amid the glossy, unrealistic portrayals, a robust body positivity movement has taken root.
Platforms like Instagram have become havens where real bodies in their diverse forms are celebrated.
This movement, strengthened by hashtags and communities, focuses on loving yourself as you are, encouraging a healthier, more inclusive perspective on beauty.
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2. Health and Fitness Inspiration
While the line can sometimes blur between healthy inspiration and obsessive comparison, social media also serves as a launching pad for fitness motivation and positive lifestyle changes.
It introduces users to workout routines, nutritious recipes, and personal stories of transformation, all of which can be incredibly motivating.
"Platforms like Instagram have become havens where real bodies in their diverse forms are celebrated. "
3. Community and Support
Beyond the superficial, social media has the power to connect like-minded individuals who share similar journeys.
Numerous online groups and forums offer a space for sharing experiences, challenges, and victories concerning body image, creating a support system that was unimaginable in the pre-digital era.
Navigating Social Media Mindfully
Acknowledging both the good and the bad, the question remains: How do we navigate this landscape without falling prey to its pitfalls? Well…
Set Boundaries
Time spent scrolling is time you’ll never get back. Set limits on your social media use and be intentional about how and when you log on.
Curate Your Feed
Follow accounts that uplift and inspire you, and don’t hesitate to unfollow those that spark negative feelings about your body or self-worth.
Reality Check
Remind yourself that what you’re seeing is often a highlight reel, not the unedited, behind-the-scenes footage of real life.
Seek Real Connections
While online communities are wonderful, they can never fully replace the warmth and authenticity of face-to-face interactions. Strive to maintain a balance between your virtual and real-life connections.
Practice Self-Compassion
Instead of being your harshest critic, learn to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Embrace your perceived flaws and recognise that perfection is an impossible—and frankly, a rather dull—goal.
Final Thoughts…
In the grand scheme of things, social media is neither inherently good nor bad.
It's a tool, and like any tool, its impact depends on how we use it. By approaching our social media consumption with mindfulness and intention, we can enjoy its perks while minimising its drawbacks, paving the way for a healthier, happier relationship with our bodies and ourselves.
So, the next time you catch yourself going down the rabbit hole of comparison, take a moment to pause, breathe, and remember that your worth transcends any like, share, or follow.
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The Author: Ashleigh Tosh
Ashleigh is the Lead Copywriter for MuscleFood with a love for all things food and fitness. With a foundation in broadcast journalism, she has dedicated the past decade to writing for the health and wellness sector. When not writing away, you can catch her with her nose in a good book, in the gym or summiting Scottish Munros.
