Thematic Findings
Social Media problematic for Adolescent Body image
Males; Appearance focus in adolescence, functional in adulthood
Lack of regulation of content is problematic
More influenced by peers/media
Extensive use of social media
Achieving Body Acceptance (Protective)
Male acceptance - experiencing a romantic relationship
Female acceptance - general maturation
Improved body image through development by increased acceptance
Validation & acceptance motivates desire for body ideal
Promoting Body Image on Social Media
Need selective & protective filtering of content! (Social Media Literacy)
Body positive movement = limited effectiveness
Illusion of Control over Social Media use Outcomes
Extends distance of polarized extremes
Moderate/realistic comparisons= limited
Pushed extreme content
Designed to be addictive/manipulative
Personal control limited by algorithms
Cognitive processing of content
Mood/mindset
Susceptibility to body-related messages
Content selected to consume
Illusion of Attainability of Body Ideals
Appearance-focused feedback on self-generated content
Quantifiable appearance validation
Appearance comparisons
Celebs & Influencers
Only see idealized side
Subtopic
Most detrimental influences on body image
New: comparisons with Peers & Social Influencers
Visually compelling
