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Table of Content

Sl. No. Topic Page No.

1. Abstract 1
2. Introduction 2-3
3. Literature Review 3-5
4. Objectives and Methods 5-6
5. Discussion and Analysis 6
6. Future Scope 6-7
7. Limitations and 7-8
Implications
8. References 9

Abstract

This abstract examines the effects of social media on body image, delving into the
complex interactions that contribute to the shaping of individual perceptions and societal
standards. Beginning with an acknowledgment of the pervasive influence of social media
in contemporary society, the abstract emphasizes the need to explore and understand the
multifaceted impact on body image.

The analysis encompasses a systematic review of relevant studies, employing various

databases and keywords to compile a comprehensive overview. The exploration focuses
on the ways in which social media influences body image, considering factors such as
exposure to idealized body types, comparison culture, and the role of influencers.

Structured thematically, the abstract discusses the psychological and emotional

consequences of social media's impact on body image, highlighting both positive and
negative outcomes. It also considers how diverse demographic groups may be differently
affected, taking into account variables such as age, gender, and cultural backgrounds.

In conclusion, the abstract underscores the significance of continued research to navigate

the evolving dynamics between social media and body image. It aims to contribute to a
deeper understanding of the subject, paving the way for informed discussions and
potential interventions that promote healthier body image perceptions in the era of
pervasive social media.
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Introduction

The effect of social media on body image is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon
that has garnered increasing attention in recent years. Social media platforms, such as
Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and others, have become powerful influencers in shaping
societal perceptions of beauty, attractiveness, and body standards. This influence has both
positive and negative implications for individuals' body image.

Positive Effects

1.Body positivity moments: Social media has provided a platform for body positivity
movements, promoting acceptance and appreciation of diverse body shapes, sizes, and
appearances. Influencers and activists use these platforms to challenge traditional beauty
standards and encourage self-love.

2.Community Support: Social media can create supportive communities where

individuals with similar body image concerns can connect, share experiences, and offer
mutual support. This sense of community can help combat feelings of isolation and
promote a more inclusive understanding of beauty.

3.Education and awareness: Social media can be a valuable tool for spreading
awareness about the unrealistic nature of heavily edited images in traditional media. It
can educate users about the impact of media portrayals on body image and self-esteem.

Negative Effects

1.Idealized standards: Social media often perpetuates unrealistic and idealized beauty
standards through filtered images, photo editing, and curated content. Constant exposure
to these images can lead individuals to compare themselves unfavorably and feel pressure
to conform to these standards.

2.Social Comparison: The constant visibility of others' lives and bodies on social media
can trigger social comparison, where individuals measure their own worth based on how
they perceive themselves in relation to others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and
dissatisfaction with one's own body.

3.Cyber Bulling: Negative comments, body shaming, and cyber bullying on social media
can significantly impact individuals' self-esteem and body image. The anonymity
provided by online platforms may embolden individuals to make hurtful comments that
can have lasting effects.

In conclusion, the effect of social media on body image is a nuanced interplay between
positive and negative influences. While it provides a platform for promoting body
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positivity and self-acceptance, it also exposes individuals to idealized standards that can
contribute to negative body image issues. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for
both individuals and society to foster a healthier relationship with body image in the age
of social media.

Literature Review

 Children and adolescents spend considerable time online. The current study
investigated moderators of short-term longitudinal associations from social media
use to changes in body satisfaction and physical activity. Participants (144 girls,
152 boys) were third–sixth grade students (ages 8–13) attending public schools in
Florida (USA). Self-reports of social media use, body satisfaction, physical
activity, and susceptibility to peer influence were completed twice, approximately
13.5 weeks apart. The results indicated that higher initial social media use was
associated with greater subsequent decreases in body satisfaction and physical
activity, but only for children high on susceptibility to peer influence. The
findings suggest that peer conformity amplifies the risks of social media use. The
fact that meaningful change can be identified across a relatively short period of
time is noteworthy and demonstrates the need for careful monitoring of those who
participate in social media at an early age.

 A study synthesized on practical strategies and future directions proposed by

contributors to the special issue in body image on social media and body image. It
also moves beyond the contributions of the special issue in an effort to provide
additional guidance to researchers, clinicians, educators, and policymakers. First,
we recommend that research on social media and body image extend beyond
convenience sampling of young, White women and include children and older
adults, boys and men, and underrepresented groups. Second, we urge researchers
to move away from simplistic measures of social media and to utilize mixed-
methods approaches. Third, we advocate for the development of new theories that
can be tested longitudinally and that capture the unique influences of social
media, rather than relying solely on existing models that were developed for
traditional media. Fourth, we provide recommendations regarding practical
strategies, such as the inclusion of media literacy campaigns, increased research
on the role of reality check disclaimers, and further examination regarding the
role of body positivity in prevention and intervention efforts. Finally, we end with
recommendations regarding advocacy, such as using social media to harness
positive efforts and partnering with social media companies regarding their use of
algorithms.

 In one of the studies conducted, we considered how social media variables may be
integrated as predictors, mediators, and moderators within dominant theoretical
frameworks of body image in order to identify potential mechanisms of action
that can be empirically examined in future research and used to direct prevention
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and intervention efforts. To achieve this goal, we first articulate social media
variables that have been investigated as predictors, mediators, and moderators in
body image research. Next, we present the following critical and sociocultural
theoretical frameworks: social comparison theory, tripartite influence model,
objectification theory, developmental theory of embodiment, acceptance model of
intuitive eating, cultivation theory, and uses and gratifications theory.
Additionally, we present the theory of development of critical body awareness, a
newly developed model that may provide further insight regarding the
relationships between social media and body image-related outcomes. For each
model, we articulate extant research that has explored social media variables
within its context and explicate how social media variables could potentially be
studied as predictors, mediators, and moderators within its structure. To conclude,
we address pertinent limitations and gaps within this research space that could
direct future research across the theoretical frameworks.

 Social media (SM) use may have detrimental effects on the physical and mental
wellbeing of young adults, including body image dissatisfaction (BID) and
changes in dietary behavior. This issue may be of particular concern in pregnant
women since adequate dietary behavior is essential during pregnancy for the
health of the mother and fetus. The present study aimed to investigate how SM
use and posting as well as dependence on technological devices relate to body
image and dietary behavior in pregnant women. A descriptive, cross-sectional
design was used. A sample of 192 Lebanese pregnant women (29.6 ± 6.2 years
old) completed a self-report questionnaire assessing the aforementioned variables.
SM usage and posting were both associated with healthy eating behaviors
(p = 0.049 and p = 0.03 respectively). On the other hand, SM posting was
associated with higher negative body image scores (p = 0.04), postnatal image
concerns (p = 0.02), as well as competitiveness with regard to the pregnant body
(p = 0.02). Also, dependence on technological devices and internet was associated
with higher negative body image scores (p < 0.001), postnatal image concerns
(p < 0.001) and increased anxiousness towards the pregnant body (p = 0.02).
While SM use and posting are associated with healthy eating behaviors, SM
posting and dependence on technological devices are also associated with
increased appearance comparison and BID in pregnant women. The present study
adds to the growing evidence supporting a significant impact of SM use on
physical and mental wellbeing, emphasizing potential deleterious effects during
pregnancy. Practical implications are discussed in terms of media literacy
interventions and recommendations for healthcare team members to improve
maternal counseling and support by encouraging healthy body image, diet and
lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy.

 The aim of this present study to investigate the effect of daily exposure to body-
positive and fitspiration Instagram posts on young women’s mood, body
satisfaction, and appearance comparison tendency. One hundred and twenty-two
young Italian women (Mage = 22.29 ± 2.26 years) were randomly assigned to three
different conditions of daily exposure on Instagram (i.e., body-positive,
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fitspiration and neutral content) and followed with an experience sampling

method over a period of 28 consecutive days. Comparisons between groups were
performed via multilevel regression modelled as a linear growth model. Results
showed that daily exposure to body-positive images was associated with the
highest rates of growth of positive mood and body satisfaction. Daily exposure to
fitspiration images was associated with the highest rates of growth of negative
mood and appearance comparison. In conclusion, the body-positive movement
may be considered in interventions aimed at improving young women’s body
image. Fitspiration content on Instagram should be deemed inappropriate.
 This systematic review assessed the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic and
associated restrictions on body image, disordered eating (DE), and eating disorder
outcomes. After registration on PROSPERO, a search was conducted for papers
published between December 1, 2019 and August 1, 2021, using the databases
PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, CINAHL Plus, AMED, MEDLINE, ERIC,
EMBASE, Wiley, and ProQuest (dissertations and theses). Data from 75
qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies were synthesized using a
convergent integrated approach and presented narratively within four themes: (1)
disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) variability in the improvement or
exacerbation of symptoms; (3) factors associated with body image and DE
outcomes; (4) unique challenges for marginalized and underrepresented groups.
Disruptions due to the pandemic included social and functional restrictions.
Although most studies reported a worsening of concerns, some participants also
reported symptom improvement or no change as a result of the pandemic. Factors
associated with worse outcomes included psychological, individual, social, and
eating disorder-related variables. Individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ reported
unique concerns during COVID-19. There is large variability in individuals'
responses to COVID-19 and limited research exploring the effect of the pandemic
on body image, DE, and eating disorder outcomes using longitudinal and
experimental study designs. In addition, further research is required to investigate
the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on body image and eating concerns among
minoritized, racialized, underrepresented, or otherwise marginalized participants.
Based on the findings of this review, we make recommendations for individuals,
researchers, clinicians, and public health messaging.

Objectives and Methods

Objective: The primary objective of studying the effects of social media on body
image is to understand how online platforms contribute to the formation of body image
perceptions and attitudes. This involves investigating the relationship between social
media use and factors such as body satisfaction, self-esteem, and the internalization of
beauty standards.

Methods: The researcher employed various methods to explore the impact of social
media on body image. Surveys and questionnaires that assess individuals' social media
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habits, body image perceptions, and psychological well-being. Content analysis that
examined the portrayal of body image in online platforms, identifying patterns and
trends. Longitudinal studies tracking changes in body image over time in relation to
social media exposure. Experimental designs that manipulated social media exposure to
measure immediate effects on body image. Overall, a multidisciplinary approach which
helps capture the nuanced relationship between social media and body image.

Discussion and Analysis

The discussed papers collectively highlight the multifaceted impact of social media on
body image. Leggett-James and Laursen's work emphasizes the repercussions of social
media use during adolescence, noting influences on body image and physical activity.
Tylka et al.'s research explores social media variables as predictors, mediators, and
moderators in body image frameworks, offering insights into potential mechanisms.
Zeeni, Abi Kharma, and Mattar's study delves into the unique context of pregnant
women, revealing how social media affects body image and eating behavior during this
crucial period.

Fioravanti et al.'s intensive longitudinal study examines the daily exposure to body-
positive and fitspiration Instagram content, shedding light on its impact on young
women's mood and body image. Lastly, Schneider et al.'s mixed-studies systematic
review delves into the experiences of body image disordered eating, and eating disorders
during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing a broader context to the discourse.

Together, these studies underscore the diverse ways in which social media intersects with
body image, emphasizing the need for nuanced approaches and further research to
comprehend the complexities of this relationship.

Future Scope

For future research, it is imperative to delve deeper into the dynamics between social
media and body image, considering the evolving landscape and emerging trends. Firstly,
exploring the long-term effects of social media exposure on body image and mental well-
being is crucial, especially considering the longitudinal study by Fioravanti et al. Future
investigations should assess whether the observed impacts on mood and body image are
sustained over time or undergo shifts.
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Moreover, the role of different social media platforms warrants examination. Given the
rapid evolution of these platforms, understanding the unique influences of Instagram,
Facebook, TikTok, and others on body image is essential. This could involve analyzing
the content, algorithms, and user interactions specific to each platform.

Additionally, considering the findings related to pregnant women by Zeeni, Abi Kharma,
and Mattar, future research should explore how social media interventions can be
designed to positively influence body image and eating behavior during pregnancy.
Tailoring digital strategies to provide support and promote a healthy body image for this
demographic is an area that deserves attention.

Furthermore, investigating the effectiveness of interventions and educational programs

aimed at mitigating negative body image effects associated with social media use is a
promising avenue. Understanding which strategies are most impactful in fostering
positive body image and resilience against negative influences can inform the
development of preventive measures.

Lastly, given the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic outlined in Schneider
et al.'s review, ongoing and future research should continue to assess the enduring effects
of global events on body image. This includes understanding how societal changes, such
as increased remote interactions and altered beauty standards, influence individuals'
perceptions of their bodies.

In essence, the future scope lies in refining our comprehension of the intricate interplay
between social media and body image, with a focus on targeted interventions, platform-
specific analyses, and the broader societal context. This ongoing exploration will be
essential for developing informed strategies to promote positive body image in the digital
age.

Limitations and Implications

Despite the valuable insights gained from the discussed studies, it's crucial to
acknowledge certain limitations that can inform the interpretation of their findings.
Firstly, the cross-sectional nature of some research, such as Leggett-James and Laursen's
work, poses challenges in establishing causal relationships. Longitudinal studies could
provide a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamic interplay between social
media use and body image development over time.

Another limitation pertains to the generalizability of findings, as the studies focus on

specific demographics, such as adolescents or pregnant women. Extending research to
diverse populations would enhance the external validity of the conclusions, considering
that different age groups and cultural contexts may respond differently to social media
influences.
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Furthermore, the rapid evolution of social media platforms and the variability in content
over time present challenges in maintaining the relevance of findings. Studies focusing
on specific platforms may need regular updates to reflect the dynamic nature of online
content and user interactions.

The use of self-report measures, prevalent in many studies, introduces potential biases
related to participant subjectivity and social desirability. Combining self-report data with
more objective measures, such as physiological or behavioral indicators, could strengthen
the robustness of the conclusions.

Implications of the findings from these studies are far-reaching. Recognizing the impact
of social media on body image necessitates the development of targeted interventions.
Schools, healthcare providers, and social media platforms themselves could collaborate to
implement educational programs promoting media literacy and positive body image.
Additionally, mental health professionals may incorporate these insights into therapeutic
strategies for individuals struggling with body image issues exacerbated by social media.

From a policy perspective, the research underscores the importance of guidelines for
responsible content creation on social media platforms. Awareness campaigns focusing
on promoting body positivity and mental well being in the digital space could contribute
to a healthier online environment.

In conclusion, while the studies offer valuable contributions to understanding the

relationship between social media and body image, researchers and practitioners should
approach these findings with an awareness of the limitations. Addressing these
limitations and considering their implications can guide future research endeavors and the
development of effective interventions in this rapidly evolving field.
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Reference

Leggett-James, M. P., & Laursen, B. (2023). The consequences of social

media use across the transition into adolescence: body image and physical
activity. The Journal of Early Adolescence, 43(7), 947-964.

Harriger, J. A., Thompson, J. K., & Tiggemann, M. (2023). TikTok, TikTok,

the time is now: Future directions in social media and body image. Body
Image, 44, 222-226.

Tylka, T. L., Rodgers, R. F., Calogero, R. M., Thompson, J. K., & Harriger,
J. A. (2023). Integrating social media variables as predictors, mediators, and
moderators within body image frameworks: Potential mechanisms of action
to consider in future research. Body Image, 44, 197-221.

Zeeni, N., Abi Kharma, J., & Mattar, L. (2023). Social media use impacts
body image and eating behavior in pregnant women. Current
Psychology, 42(6), 4948-4955.

Fioravanti, G., Svicher, A., Ceragioli, G., Bruni, V., & Casale, S. (2023).
Examining the impact of daily exposure to body-positive and fitspiration
Instagram content on young women’s mood and body image: An intensive
longitudinal study. New Media & Society, 25(12), 3266-3288.

Schneider, J., Pegram, G., Gibson, B., Talamonti, D., Tinoco, A., Craddock,
N., ... & Forshaw, M. (2023). A mixed‐ studies systematic review of the
experiences of body image disordered eating, and eating disorders during the
COVID‐ 19 pandemic. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 56(1), 26-
6.