Integrating social media variables as predictors, mediators, and moderators within body image frameworks: Potential mechanisms of action to consider in future research

Behind the mirror: An exploration of the Tripartite Influence Model among Italian adolescent boys and girls

Body image concerns and eating disorder (ED) symptoms are increasingly common among adolescents, highlighting the importance of discerning their risk factors. One of the main frameworks explaining the development of body image and eating-related issues is the Tripartite Influence Model (TIM); however, adolescent research examining this model remains scarce and mainly limited to female individuals. Therefore, this study aimed to test the original TIM in a sample of 788 Italian students (59 % girls) aged 13-19 years. They completed self-report tools assessing appearance-related sociocultural pressures, general attractiveness-ideal internalization, appearance comparison frequency, body shame, and ED symptoms. Path analysis was employed to test the TIM in the overall sample, followed by a multigroup analysis by biological sex. The results showed that, in both groups, family pressure was linked to body shame directly and to ED symptoms via body shame; however, neither internalization nor appearance comparisons mediated these relations. Peer pressure was associated with body shame via appearance comparisons but not via internalization. Media pressure was related to body shame both directly and via appearance comparisons and indirectly linked to ED symptoms through body shame. In girls, significant relations between family pressure and ED symptoms, as well as between media pressure and internalization, also emerged. The practical implications are discussed, especially regarding culturally sensitive prevention programs.

Protecting young women's body image from appearance-based social media exposure: A comparative study of self-compassion writing and mindful breathing interventions

OBJECTIVE

This study compared the effectiveness of self-compassion writing and mindful breathing in protecting body image after exposure to appearance-focused social media. It focused on individuals with high self-objectification and explored the underlying mechanisms and emotional benefits of these interventions.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 107 young females (17-25 years) assigned to self-compassion writing (n = 37), mindful breathing (n = 36), or control (n = 34) groups. Body dissatisfaction was induced using idealized body imagery, after which participants completed their respective interventions. State body image was measured at baseline, post-induction, and post-intervention. At the end of the study, a semi-structured interview was conducted, and the data were analyzed using Neff's self-compassion framework.

RESULTS

A two-way ANOVA revealed a significant interaction effect between group and time point F (3.98, 207.15) = 8.45, p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.140. Self-compassion writing through enhanced self-kindness improved state body image beyond baseline levels. Trait self-objectification moderated the efficacy of the intervention (∆R2 = 0.04, F (2,100) = 3.48, p = 0.035). Mediation analysis revealed that both interventions improved emotional state through body image enhancement (mediation effect size = 0.21).

CONCLUSIONS

Self-compassion writing demonstrated superior efficacy over mindful breathing, primarily through fostering self-kindness. Body image emerged as a critical mediator of emotion improvement, highlighting the value of mindfulness-based interventions in promoting body positivity and emotional resilience following appearance-based social media exposure.

Your fitness-sharing is a reminder for my poor body: how fitness posts exposure on social media harms female body esteem

Background

Prior literature suggests that fitness posts exposure on social media increases female body image concerns. However, little research has been conducted to examine the effect of fitness posts exposure on female body esteem.

Objective

Given that, two studies were conducted to investigate how fitness posts exposure on social media exerted an influence on female body esteem.

Method and results

By using a questionnaire survey (n = 270), we in Study 1 measured participants' frequency of fitness posts exposure on social media, body esteem, body surveillance, and appearance contingent self-worth. The results showed that fitness posts exposure was significantly and positively related to female body esteem, and body surveillance played a mediating role between them. And this mediation was further moderated by appearance contingent self-worth. Simple slope analysis showed that fitness posts exposure had a significantly positive prediction on body surveillance at the high level of appearance contingent self-worth, but the prediction of fitness posts exposure was not significant at the low level of appearance contingent self-worth. Study 2 was a lab experiment, in which we randomly assigned 180 female undergraduates to the fitness-appearance exposure condition, the fitness-performance exposure condition, and the travel image exposure condition. Then, we asked participants to report body surveillance and body esteem. The results showed that participants in the fitness-appearance exposure condition reported higher body surveillance and lower body esteem than participants in the other two conditions. Consistent with Study 1, Study 2 revealed the mediating role of body surveillance between exposure condition and body esteem.

Conclusion

Fitness posts exposure produces a negative influence on female body esteem via the mediation of body surveillance, and this pattern is more obvious among women with high appearance contingent self-worth. Appearance-relevant content involved in fitness posts, rather than pure fitness performance, harms female body esteem.

Longitudinal associations between appearance evaluation during video chat and body image concerns: A test of the "Perfect Storm" framework

Body image development is a critical task of adolescence, necessitating the study of experiences that shape how adolescents perceive their appearance. Video chatting is one such experience, as default self-view settings render an environment in which one's physical appearance is highly salient. Although numerous studies have examined how digital technology use relates to body image, few have examined video chatting, especially longitudinally. Research is also needed examining how self-oriented digital experiences may indirectly relate to mental health via body image concerns. This three-wave longitudinal study examined bidirectional associations between self-reported appearance evaluation during video chat, body image concerns (appearance esteem and self-objectification), and depressive symptoms among a socio- and ethnically-diverse sample of early-to-middle adolescents (N = 1157, Mage = 13.14, 53 % girls, 47% boys). Bidirectional associations emerged for both boys and girls, in which appearance evaluation during video chat was linked with lower appearance esteem and greater self-objectification. Both appearance esteem and self-objectification mediated the longitudinal association between appearance evaluation during video chat and depressive symptoms. Findings suggest that appearance evaluation during video chat may have important long-term associations with body image and mental health, which future research should explore further, particularly with objective assessments of self-focused attention during video chat.

To detox or not to detox? The impact of different approaches to social media detox strategies on body image and wellbeing

This study compared the efficacy of three 7-day detox strategies on young women's body image and wellbeing. The three strategies were: (a) Insta/TikTok break, (b) daily time-cap (30 minutes max), and (c) Insta/TikTok cleanse (removing appearance-focused content from feeds). A sample of 175 women aged 17-35 (M = 22.71) was randomized into one of the three detox conditions or social media use as usual. Participants completed assessments of self-objectification, appearance satisfaction, body appreciation, media pressure, and wellbeing at baseline, day 3 (check-in) and day 7 (posttest). Significant interactions showed that appearance satisfaction improved for all three detox groups from baseline to posttest, but no changes occurred for the control group. Appearance satisfaction also increased from day 3 to posttest in the Insta/TikTok cleanse group. Wellbeing improved from baseline to posttest for the daily time-cap group. Increases in wellbeing also occurred from day 3 to day 7 for the Insta/TikTok break and daily time-cap groups. No further interactions were found. Findings shed light on the varying effects of three 7-day social media detox strategies for promoting appearance satisfaction and overall wellbeing. Cleansing Instagram and TikTok feeds of appearance-focused content emerged as a particularly promising approach for improving appearance satisfaction.

Social media incidental appearance exposure and young people's body image: A conceptual review

Research has shown that young people manage their body image by relying on appearance-ideals conveyed by social media and such use of social media maintains and/or reinforces existing body image issues. While useful, this research exclusively focuses on intentional social media exposure/use: the purposeful use of appearance-related social media content to fulfill particular needs. However, oftentimes young people incidentally encounter appearance content without actively searching for it; i.e., incidental appearance social media exposure. To date, research has yet to differentiate between incidental and intentional appearance exposure and investigate how each of these relates to body image. This review addresses this gap by identifying different ways in which social media incidental exposure may relate to young people's body image. We first explain the potential of incidental social media exposure to promote positive body image, focusing on exposure diversity (exposure to diverse appearance content). Then we reflect upon conditions under which social media incidental exposure may facilitate exposure diversity. Lastly, we discuss how cognitive response states mediate the relationship between social media incidental exposure and body image outcomes, and the role of social identities. We conclude with recommendations for how to include social media incidental appearance exposure in future body image research.

An examination of the effect of exposure to calories on menus on body-related self-conscious emotions: Continuing the investigation beyond body dissatisfaction

Mandatory calorie labelling on restaurant menus has been implemented in several Western countries. The purpose of the present study was to examine direct and indirect effects of the exposure to calorie information on menus on body-related shame, guilt, and hubristic pride. Self-compassion was examined as a moderator, and self-objectification was examined as a mediator. Men and women (N = 359, mean age = 42 years) were recruited on Prolific for a study examining "self-perceptions and menu choices". Participants were randomly assigned to view a menu with or without calorie information and select a hypothetical meal. Exposure to calories on menus statistically significantly predicted higher body-related shame, but not body-related guilt or body-related hubristic pride. Self-objectification did not mediate the relationship between exposure to calories on menus and body-related shame, guilt, or hubristic pride. Self-compassion moderated the relationship between exposure to calories on menus and body-related shame. Overall, individuals who scored low on self-compassion experienced higher body-related shame after exposure to a restaurant menu with calories. These findings outline potential harmful effects of mandatory calorie labelling that should be taken into account in the mandating and evaluation of such policies.

Appearance comparison on social networking sites and body shame: The role of negative body talk and perceived sociocultural influences on body image

Social media platforms play a significant role in the lives of young people. While the usage of these platforms has grown, research exploring the challenges of body image remains limited. This study investigated whether initiating negative body talk functioned as an indirect pathway between appearance comparison on social media and body shame and whether perceived sociocultural influences from parents, friends, and media on body image moderated this indirect effect. An online cross-sectional survey of 795 Chinese college students (Mage = 20.17, SD = 1.65; 60% female, 40% male) was conducted. Negative body talk was a partial indirect pathway in the association, and this indirect effect was significant among those experiencing higher sociocultural pressures from all three sources. This study highlights the need for health psychology in understanding and addressing the mental health consequences associated with digital media and sociocultural influences on body image perception.

Investigating the link between severity of dyspareunia and female sexual distress among a group of women with endometriosis: the mediating role of body functionality appreciation

BACKGROUND

While existing studies have predominantly focused on negative body image and its potential link to female sexual distress in women with endometriosis, no studies have investigated how positive body image (ie, body functionality appreciation) mediates the association between dyspareunia severity and sexual distress in this population.

AIM

This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of body functionality appreciation in the relationship between severity of dyspareunia and sexual distress in women living with endometriosis.

METHODS

A total of 232 women with endometriosis (M = 35 years) took part in the study. Participants completed an anonymous questionnaire evaluating dyspareunia severity, functionality appreciation, female sexual distress, sociodemographic factors, and endometriosis-related clinical information. All participants were administered the following questionnaires: numerical rating scale, body functionality appreciation, female sexual distress scale.

OUTCOMES

Using a mediation model, the study analyzed both the direct and indirect effects of dyspareunia severity on sexual distress, with functionality appreciation as a mediator.

RESULTS

The findings suggest that the severity of dyspareunia significantly contributes to sexual distress both directly and indirectly, by diminishing the appreciation for body functionality.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Clinicians should not only focus on the severity of dyspareunia when evaluating sexual distress in women; instead, they should also acknowledge the protective role of positive body image. Integrated treatments that promote body functionality appreciation could enhance treatment outcomes.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

The study is the first to examine the mediating role of body functionality appreciation in the relationship between dyspareunia severity and sexual distress in a sample of women with endometriosis; however, the assessment was cross-sectional and did not encompass other factors that may influence the connection between dyspareunia severity and sexual distress.

CONCLUSION

These findings, in addition to advancing theoretical understanding of the role of positive body image in women with dyspareunia, may be valuable in guiding the design of interventions aimed at reducing sexual distress in women with high levels of dyspareunia severity.

Let's talk about body neutrality: content analysis of #bodyneutrality on TikTok

BACKGROUND

To date, over 1.3 billion videos with the hashtag #bodyneutrality have been viewed on TikTok. Despite this, little existing literature has unpacked how body neutrality is conceptualised on TikTok. We examined how TikTok creators construct meaning and generate discourse surrounding #bodyneutrality.

METHODS

Extending on previous works in the body neutrality space, we conducted a hybrid content/thematic analysis of TikTok videos in three different languages (English, Spanish, and Italian). Initially, 300 videos displaying "#bodyneutrality" were identified on TikTok. The first 178 TikTok videos were analysed, following the principles of data saturation and feasibility.

RESULTS

We developed three themes: (1) The normalisation of diverse bodies, (2) The rejection of appearance as fundamentally important, and (3) Body neutrality is (better than) body positivity.

CONCLUSIONS

In line with conceptualisations of body neutrality in existing literature, some content emphasised the importance of devaluing physical appearance. Building on existing definitions, most creators also framed body neutrality as speaking to the fundamental humanness of owning a body and attempted to normalise various body shapes/sizes. Conversely, some content employed #bodyneutrality to promote or examine body positivity principles or to condemn appearance-based stigmatisation. Our study is one of the first to examine how body neutrality is understood and employed by people in the real world.

A longitudinal study on the relationships between social media ideals exposure and thin-ideal internalization, social appearance anxiety, and cosmetic surgery consideration

The relationship between social media use, particularly exposure to idealized female images, and body image has been extensively examined through cross-sectional and experimental studies. However, further investigation is needed to explore the bidirectional relationship between them using longitudinal methods. This study examined the reciprocal relationships between social media ideals exposure and three different body image components - thin-ideal internalization, social appearance anxiety, and cosmetic surgery consideration, using a longitudinal design. A total sample of 406 Chinese female undergraduates (aged 17-24 years, Mage = 19.44, SD = 1.17) completed the baseline measurements, of whom 308 (aged 17-23 years, Mage = 19.29, SD = 1.05) completed the 6-month follow-up measurements. An integrated cross-lagged model showed that baseline social media ideals exposure (SMIE) was positively associated with 6-month follow-up cosmetic surgery consideration, baseline thin-ideal internalization was positively associated with 6-month follow-up SMIE, and baseline social appearance anxiety was negatively associated with 6-month follow-up SMIE; the reverses of the above associations were not significant. The study provided new insights into the reciprocal relationships between social media ideals exposure and different body image components.

The relation between body dysmorphic disorder symptoms and photo-based behaviors: is body appreciation a protective factor?

Body image and social media use seem to be significantly associated. In particular, photo-based behaviors (i.e., photo investment and manipulation) seemed to have a positive relation with negative body image dimensions. On the other hand, positive body image dimensions could demonstrate the role of moderators. However, current available studies did not support these findings consistently. Moreover, available studies did not assess Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and Muscle Dysmorphia (MD) symptoms. To address these issues, the associations between BDD/MD symptoms and photo-based behaviors and the possible moderation of body appreciation were examined in a sample of 485 social media users (71.1 % women). Findings from hierarchical multiple regressions highlighted that BDD symptoms were significantly associated with photo investment and manipulation, and MD symptoms were significantly associated with photo investment only. Body appreciation demonstrated a moderating role in the relation involving photo investment and BDD symptoms. Current findings supported that photo-based behaviors are significantly associated with negative body image dimensions, while positive body image demonstrated only a marginal protective role.

Personal ideal, cultural ideal and optimal attractiveness: Are these constructs for body size and shape the same or different?

There has been an assumption in the literature that the three concepts of ideal body shape (personal ideal, cultural ideal, and the most attractive body shape) are effectively the same percept. To test this presumption, 554 participants completed either a between- or within-subjects condition using a matrix of 32 bodies varying in two dimensions: muscle and adiposity. Three separate groups of participants were recruited to the between-subjects design and made only one of these judgements, whilst participants in the within-subjects version completed all three of these judgments. These bodies are based on 3D scans of 221 women's bodies and so accurately represent the change in size and shape caused by changing body composition. The participants also completed a set of psychometric questionnaires to index the degree to which external concepts of body image have been internalised. The results show that in both conditions, all three judgements collapse onto the same average preferred body shape, with low adiposity and relatively high muscularity. However, this masked systematic differences in responses between personal ideals and the other body judgements, which may be explained by a difference in how information directly related to oneself is processed relative to more abstract third person judgements.

The Impact of Social Media and Socio-Cultural Attitudes toward Body Image on the Risk of Orthorexia among Female Football Players of Different Nationalities

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Orthorexia Nervosa (ON) is an emerging behavioral pattern characterized by an obsessive focus on healthy eating. Despite its prevalence, ON lacks formal diagnostic criteria in major classification systems like the DSM-5 and the ICD-10. This study aims to investigate the impact of socio-cultural attitudes towards body image and the role of social media on the risk of ON among female football players from Poland, Turkey, and India. This study hypothesizes that socio-cultural pressures and media usage significantly influence the risk of developing ON, particularly in cultures more exposed to Western beauty ideals.

METHODS

The study was conducted from May to August 2024, employing the Computer-Assisted Web Interview method. A total of 142 female football players aged 16-36 from Poland, Turkey, and India participated. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that included demographic information and health metrics, the Socio-Cultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire, and the Duesseldorf Orthorexia Scale. Statistical analyses included an ANOVA, the Kruskal-Wallis test, the chi-square test, and Pearson's correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The study found that nearly half of the participants were at risk of or presented with ON, with the highest prevalence being among Indian athletes. Statistically significant relationships were observed between the risk of ON and factors such as age, dietary exclusions, social media usage, and sources of nutritional information. However, no significant correlation was found between socio-cultural attitudes and the risk of ON, suggesting that other factors may play a more critical role.

CONCLUSIONS

While socio-cultural pressures and media use are contributing factors to the risk of ON, psychological factors and individual behaviors appear to be equally, if not more, significant. This study highlights the importance of targeted educational programs and psychological support for young athletes, with a focus on promoting healthy dietary practices and positive body image perceptions across varying cultural contexts. Additionally, the results suggest the need for further research into the specific psychological and behavioral mechanisms underlying ON.

Integrating social media, body shame and psychological distress within the Elaborated Sociocultural Model

The Elaborated Sociocultural Model proposes exposure to sociocultural appearance pressures increases women's internalisation of the thin ideal, their engagement in social comparison and body surveillance, and subsequent body dissatisfaction and disturbances in eating (Fitzsimmons-Craft et al., 2011). Although this model has received some empirical support, it is limited in that it does not currently account for social media as a contemporary source of appearance pressure, nor include additional known outcomes of thin ideal internalisation (i.e., body shame, psychological distress). The current study tested the integration of these variables within the Elaborated Sociocultural Model. Using structural equation modelling with latent variables, the extended model provided acceptable to good fit to the data in a sample of 271 female participants. A latent variable representing sociocultural appearance pressures originating from social media, traditional media, family and peers was found to significantly predict thin ideal internalisation and body image concerns. Furthermore, both social comparison and body surveillance emerged as indirect mediators of the relationship between thin ideal internalisation and body image concerns, which in turn, increased report of restrained eating and psychological distress. Aligning with previous research, this extended model offers a useful and comprehensive framework for investigating women's body image.

Passive social networking sites use and disordered eating behaviors in adolescents: The roles of upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction and its sex differences

Previous research has indicated a link between social networking site (SNS) use and eating behaviors, but the underlying mechanisms have not been well explored. This study investigated the role of upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction in the relationship between passive SNS use and disordered eating (DE) behaviors, as well as sex differences. A total of 744 middle school students (51.6% female, Mage = 12.87 years, SD = 0.68) completed self-report questionnaires regarding passive SNS use, upward social comparison, body dissatisfaction, and DE behaviors. Results revealed that: 1) girls reported significantly higher levels of passive SNS use, body dissatisfaction, and DE behaviors than boys; 2) passive SNS use was a significant predictor of DE behaviors both sexes; 3) body dissatisfaction mediated the relationship between passive SNS use and DE behaviors for girls; 4) the chain mediating effects of upward social comparison and body dissatisfaction between passive SNS use and DE behaviors were found only among adolescent girls; 5) Compared to boys, body dissatisfaction in girls is more significantly related to DE behaviors, and upward social comparison is more closely related to body dissatisfaction in girls. These findings suggest that passive SNS use, rather than general SNS use, was related to body dissatisfaction and eating concerns. Interventions targeting specific passive SNS users may be an effective avenue for the prevention and management of body-related concerns and disordered eating behavior in adolescent girls.

Body-Positive Instagram Exposure and Young Women's Body Image: The Mediating Role of Appearance Comparison and Broadly Conceptualizing Beauty

Evidence is mixed as to whether viewing body-positive content on social media can cultivate positive body image in women. Body-positive exposure has been linked to positive (e.g. body satisfaction) and negative (e.g. self-objectification) outcomes. To increase our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the relationship between body-positive social media exposure and positive body image, this study tested two mediators: upward appearance comparisons and broad conceptualization of beauty. Combining insights from social comparison theory, objectification theory, and the acceptance model of body appreciation, we examined whether broadly conceptualizing beauty and engaging in fewer upward appearance comparisons can connect body-positive exposure on Instagram to decreased body surveillance and increased body appreciation. A sample of 345 young women (Mage = 21.65, SD = 1.70) participated in an online survey. Parallel mediation analyses showed that higher relative exposure to body-positive content on Instagram was indirectly related to decreased body surveillance and increased body appreciation, via lower engagement in upward appearance comparisons and a broader conceptualizing beauty. Taken together, body-positive posts on Instagram can positively contribute to women's body image, if they stimulate protective filtering of idealized content, decrease the relevance of idealized models as comparison targets, and increase perceptions of unconditional body appreciation by others.

Predictive Model of the Relationship between Appearance, Eating Attitudes, and Physical Activity Behavior in Young People amid COVID-19

This cross-sectional study conducted in Poland explored the relationship between the fear of negative appearance evaluations, eating disorders, and physical activity objectives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Fear of Negative Appearance Evaluation Scale (FNAES), the Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26), and the Physical Activity Goals Inventory (IPAO) were administered to 644 participants (455 males with a mean age of 35.2 ± 6.2 years and 189 females with a mean age of 30.18 ± 5.7 years). This study explored the effects of gender, age, and body mass index (BMI) on FNAES, EAT-26, and IPAO scores. The results of this study demonstrated that females scored higher on fear of negative appearance, peaking at 41-50 years of age. Distinct BMI categories were associated with different negative appearance fear scores, eating attitudes, and physical activity objectives. Significant correlations were also found between the fear of negative appearance, dietary attitudes, and physical activity goals. Eating attitudes completely moderated the relationship between the fear of negative appearance and physical activity objectives. A significant interaction effect of age and body mass index on physical activity objectives was also revealed. These results highlight the relevance of considering gender, age, and body mass index when examining the associations between the fear of negative appearance, eating attitudes, and physical activity objectives.

Two sides of the self-love coin: Self-compassion text-only posts and body positive photo-based content both positively affect body image

Although body-positive content is associated with increased positive body image, concerns regarding the continued focus on appearance have emerged. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine whether self-compassion text-only content provided benefits beyond traditional photo-based body positivity content. Undergraduates (n = 283; 179 women, 104 men) were randomly assigned to view body positive photos, self-compassion text-only content, or architectural images (control condition). Participants assigned to both experimental conditions demonstrated a significant increase in measures of state body appreciation, state body satisfaction, and state self-compassion, however they did not differ significantly from each other. The self-compassion condition also differed significantly from the control condition. Trait appearance comparisons moderated the relationship between experimental condition and state body appreciation and state body satisfaction, and gender did not affect the relationship between condition and the outcome measures. Results of this study support the inclusion of body-positivity images and self-compassion text-only content in social media interventions for improving body image for men and women.

A sociocultural model of the relationships between social media use and body image in midlife women

The use of photo-based social media has been associated with body image concerns among young women. Women in midlife are increasingly experiencing appearance pressures, and these pressures might be particularly strong on social media. However, to date, most of the research on social media use has focused on younger women, and this constitutes an important gap. The purpose of this study was therefore to examine a model of the relationships among social media use and body image among women aged 40 and over. A convenience sample of 192 women aged 40-73 years completed an online survey assessing selfie investment, social media appearance pressures, thin-ideal internalization, appearance comparison, weight and shape concerns, facial satisfaction, drive for youthfulness and drive for muscularity. The final sociocultural model was a good fit to the data, and thin-ideal internalization and appearance comparisons mediated the pathways between the social media variables and the body image ones.

Incitement to misuse of corticosteroids by Arab YouTubers in a local context

BACKGROUND

The ubiquity of social media has ushered in an era where uncontrolled content sharing extends to all subjects, including sensitive topics such as medication consumption.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the prevalence of YouTube videos providing information on glucocorticoids and to underscore the risks associated with inaccurate information, which might inadvertently promote inappropriate use of these medications.

METHODS

The YouTube videos were selected using predefined keywords from February 20 to March 4, 2023. The videos were categorized into two groups. Category 1 promotes the misuse of corticosteroids, while Category 2 raises awareness about the risks associated with these drugs.

RESULTS

In total, 843 YouTube videos were included. Approximately 76% of the creators were women. Of these, category 1 videos (69.63%) predominated over Category 2 videos (30.37%). Regarding Category 1, dexamethasone was mentioned in 41.53% of cases, followed by hydrocortisone (17.30%). According to these YouTubers, these products/medications are mainly obtained from community pharmacies (58.09%), online shops (20.01%), and through illicit markets and the black market (13.46%). Weight gain was the most common objective, according to 32.62% of the YouTubers.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the prevalence of YouTube videos regarding the misuse of corticosteroids. The common focus on weight gain as an objective underscores the importance of educating content creators and viewers about responsible corticosteroid use. Targeted interventions are needed to promote safe and informed medication practices within this online environment.

#BodyPositive: A qualitative exploration of young people's responses to body positive social media content

Body positive social media content has been suggested to be more helpful to body image as compared to mainstream idealized images. However, body positive content is heterogeneous, and the processes underpinning the effects of body positive social media content on body image are not well understood. The aim of this study was to qualitatively examine variations in reactions to different types of body positive images among young people and their perceptions of the underlying processes. A sample of n=33 people, 67% cisgender women, aged 14-25, mean (SD) = 19.6 (2.57) years, were interviewed. Thematic analysis revealed that body positive content highlighting the unrealistic nature of social media and inclusive in its broad portrayals of beauty were evaluated as most helpful. Two main processes were identified: (1) the broadening of understandings of beauty and greater inclusivity; and (2) the modeling of positive body image and active resistance to appearance ideals. However, these effects may vary according to content creators' characteristics as well as individuals' own body image concerns and their perceived proximity to those portrayed. Additional work across age, gender, and other identities is warranted to identify the most useful types of content for different individuals.

How exposure to body neutrality content on TikTok affects young women's body image and mood

Body neutrality aims to encourage a non-judgmental attitude towards the body and prioritize functionality over appearance. This study examined the impact of exposure to TikTok body neutrality content on young women's body image and mood. The sample comprised 189 undergraduate women (Mage = 19.25, SD = 1.98) who were randomly assigned to view one of three compilation TikTok videos on body neutrality, thin ideal, or art. Controlling for pre-test measures, results showed that women in the body neutrality group reported higher functionality appreciation and body satisfaction than women in the thin ideal and art control groups. Higher levels of positive mood and fewer upward appearance comparisons were reported by women in the body neutrality group relative to the thin ideal group. Although women in the body neutrality and thin ideal groups thought about their appearance and what they were wearing whilst viewing the videos, women in the body neutrality group reported that those thoughts were more positive than those in the thin ideal group. Findings demonstrate that brief exposure to body neutrality content on TikTok may induce immediate positive body image and mood in young women whilst providing a useful alternative to the unrealistic beauty standards popularized on such platforms.

The body positivity movement is not all that positive on TikTok: A content analysis of body positive TikTok videos

This analysis examined the content of 342 body positive videos on TikTok. Videos were gathered by searching #body positivity and coded for diversity, positive body image messages, negative appearance-focused messages, other relevant themes, and contradictory messaging. Results demonstrate that body positivity videos on TikTok often portrayed young, White women with unrealistic beauty ideals. Approximately 93% of the videos embodied Western culturally based beauty ideals somewhat or to a great extent, while 32% of the videos portrayed larger bodies. Only 32.2% of the videos contained explicit positive body image messaging, and negative appearance-focused themes or objectifying content was rare. Contradictory messaging was not present. Overall, body positive videos on TikTok rarely displayed features aligned with positive body image and promoted unrealistic beauty ideals but also rarely included explicit negative appearance-focused messaging. Future research examining effects of exposure to body positivity messaging on TikTok, in comparison to other social media platforms, is warranted.

The Comparison of Disordered Eating, Body Image, Sociocultural and Coach-Related Pressures in Athletes across Age Groups and Groups of Different Weight Sensitivity in Sports

The aim of the present study was to compare disordered eating (DE), body image, and sociocultural and coach-related pressures between athletes of different age groups (adolescents and adults) and between athletes participating in weight-sensitive (WS) and less WS groups. A total of 1003 athletes participated in this study. The age range of the sample was 15 to 44 years, and the mean age was 18.9 ± 5.8 years (51.3% were female). Athletes who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study were provided with the study measures on DE, body image and sociocultural attitudes towards appearance. Vomiting, laxative misuse and excessive exercise were more prevalent in adolescent female athletes than adults, while dietary restraint was more common in adult male athletes than adolescents. Adolescent female athletes experienced higher sociocultural (family, peers) and sport-related (coach) pressures and a less positive body image compared with adult female athletes. Adult male athletes experienced higher overweight preoccupation, more DE and unhealthy eating habits, and engaged in more frequent self-weighing behaviour compared with adolescent males. When the effect of weight sensitivity in sports was tested, a higher prevalence of DE and overweight preoccupation, more frequent self-weighing, and higher body-image-related pressure from coaches were observed in female athletes participating in aesthetic weight-sensitive (WS) sports as compared with those participating in less WS sports. No differences in positive body image were observed in female WS and less WS sports. Special DE prevention and positive body image promotion programs are necessary for female competitive athletes and parents of adolescent female athletes, especially those participating in aesthetic ones. For adult male athletes, special programs aiming to promote healthy eating should be implemented to prevent DE and body image concerns. Special education about DE prevention is compulsory for coaches who train female athletes.

Internalisation of stereotyped body appearance standards and body dissatisfaction in adolescent boys: Moderating role of sports participation

The aim of this study was to test the moderating role of sport participation in the mediation model of media pressures, internalisation of appearance ideals and body dissatisfaction in adolescent boys. Five hundred and seventy adolescent boys (mean age 17.2 ± 0.45; range 15-19 years) participated in the cross-sectional study. Adolescents completed a questionnaire consisting of measures of attitudes towards sociocultural pressures on appearance, body dissatisfaction and sport participation (participation in achievement sport, leisure exercising and non-participation in any sports). Sports participation moderated the associations between the internalisation of stereotyped appearance ideals and body dissatisfaction. In athletes, the effect of internalisation of thin body ideals on body dissatisfaction was not significant, while the effect of internalisation of muscular/athletic body ideals was negative. In leisure exercisers, the effect of internalisation of muscular body ideals on body dissatisfaction was not significant, yet internalisation of thin body ideals had a significant effect on body dissatisfaction. The strongest associations between appearance ideals internalisation and body dissatisfaction were found in adolescent boys who reported no participation in sports. Sports participation might be an effective tool in decreasing the negative effect of internalisation of stereotyped appearance ideals on adolescent boys' body image.

The impact of #beauty and #self-compassion tiktok videos on young women's appearance shame and anxiety, self-compassion, mood, and comparison processes

This study examined the impact of exposure to beauty, self-compassion, and travel (control) TikTok videos on young women's face-related appearance shame and anxiety, self-compassion, mood, upward appearance comparisons and thoughts. Undergraduate women (N = 115) were randomly assigned to view one of three compilation TikTok videos on either beauty tips, self-compassion strategies, or travel destinations. Upward appearance comparisons and thoughts were assessed at post-test only given the items related to video exposure; all other measures were assessed at pre- and post-test. Controlling for pre-test measures, results showed that face-related appearance shame and anxiety, and negative mood were higher, whereas self-compassion was lower in the beauty group relative to the travel control and self-compassion groups. Self-compassion was higher in the self-compassion group relative to the travel control. Women in the beauty group reported more upward appearance comparisons and appearance thoughts relative to women in the travel control and self-compassion groups. The self-compassion group reported more appearance thoughts relative to the travel control. Findings contribute to prior research by showing that brief exposure to beauty TikToks may have a negative effect on how young women feel about their appearance, but also how self-compassion videos may help young women feel more compassionate toward themselves.

TikTok, TikTok, the time is now: Future directions in social media and body image

This article synthesizes 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.