Social media photos are seldom posted in their original state. They’re typically edited to enhance their appeal. This applies to whatever photos we’re talking about – be it farm animals, natural landscapes, or people.
But especially to people, and teenagers in particular.
And although they’re not alone, the majority of social media users are teens. In fact, the Pew Research Center estimates that most teens (age 13-17) use social media (and have a smartphone). Nearly half of teens report they’re online constantly.
Filters and editing tools have become ubiquitous. All for the purpose of improving the asesthetic appeal of images.
Despite awareness of these practices, most teens interpret enhanced images as reality. This shows the deep impact of social media and teenagers’ perception of reality
The disconnect between the reality and the filtered ideal can cause harmful and unrealistic expectations. Thus, understanding the relationship between social media and teenagers is crucial.
Messages: Hidden, Mixed, and Messed-up
Adolescence is a time of evolution: physical, emotional, intellectual, social, behavioral.
Their bodies are in a state of natural flux. Teens strive for a sense-of-self in all areas of their lives. They seek approval, all while asking existential questions:
- Am I normal?
- What do I want to become?
- How am I perceived?
- What am I good at?
- Am I good enough?
- Do I matter?
- Am I loved?
- Am I popular?
- Am I OK?
- What can I count on?
The toxic nature of diet culture is that it turns these questions into jumping-off points for self-doubt and low self-esteem. Natural curiosities that ought to have affirmative responses instead lead to negative conclusions:
- I’m fat.
- I’m ugly.
- I’m invisible.
- I’m not good at anything.
- I have to be thin.
- I want to be beautiful/glamorous/perfect.
- I’m not popular.
- I’m unlovable. Who will ever love me?
- I’m not OK as I am.
- I can’t count on anything.
Hidden messages
The messages aren’t direct.
They’re hidden and implied, buried in alluring visuals and seemingly sound advice for “health” and “wellness.”
The basic intention is to lure observers/readers into comparison and self-doubt.
The translation could be: “We’re not going to outright tell you that this is how you should look. We’re just going to post these filtered, unrealistic photos of famous/wealthy/skinny/flawless people living ‘perfect’ lives.”
Dr. Elayne Daniels is an international coach, consultant, and psychologist specializing in eating disorders, body image, and High Sensitivity. She is anti-diet, Intuitive Eating certified and passionately believes comfort in your body at any size is your birthright. Contact her here for more information.
Contact her here to learn more. And, if you’re struggling with overcoming an eating disorder, this e-book might be useful.