Eating Disorders and Social Media

Eating disorders are influenced by environmental factors. Media propagation of the “thin ideal” is a well-known driver for negative body image and disordered eating behaviors. This article discusses the influence of general media and more specifically social media on adolescents and their body image. Prevention programs that foster social media literacy can aid adolescents in developing the skills necessary to evaluate media content and reduce its impact on self-image and mental health. Additionally, this article provides practical strategies for caregivers and clinicians for monitoring social media use and its impact on adolescents, and promoting healthy media consumption habits to reduce the negative impact on body image.