Adolescent Eating Disorders and Social Media Influences on Body Image Perception Patterns

Abstract

Background: Eating disorders among adolescents have become a growing public health concern, with increasing evidence suggesting that social media exposure significantly influences body image perceptions. Frequent engagement with appearance-focused content, unrealistic beauty standards, and peer comparisons may contribute to body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating behaviors among adolescents.

Objective: To examine the relationship between social media influences, body image perception patterns, and the prevalence of eating disorders among adolescents.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adolescents aged 12–17 years from selected schools. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing social media usage, body image perception, eating attitudes, and disordered eating behaviors. Statistical analyses were performed to determine associations between social media exposure and eating disorder risk.

Findings: The results indicated that 68% of participants used social media for more than 3 hours daily, while 61% reported body dissatisfaction. Symptoms associated with eating disorders were identified in 29% of adolescents. Approximately 57% reported frequent appearance-based comparisons on social media platforms. A significant positive association was observed between prolonged social media exposure, negative body image perceptions, and eating disorder symptoms (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Social media influences significantly affect body image perception patterns and contribute to the development of eating disorder symptoms among adolescents. Early intervention, media literacy education, and positive body image promotion are essential strategies for reducing eating disorder risk.