Effects of Social Media Use on Body Image and Disordered Eating in Adolescents

Social media use among this current generation of adolescents is unprecedented. Many adolescents have grown up surrounded by this novel form of media, with 35% of adolescents reporting that they are “almost constantly” using at least one social media platform. With its increasing prevalence, scholars have identified and continue to study the potential risks that social media use may have on adolescent well-being. One such risk is the influence of social media on body dissatisfaction and disordered eating among adolescents. Recent research has found that 75% of adolescents report body image dissatisfaction, which has been implicated as a predictor of eating disorders. This literature review summarizes findings from research on social media use, body image, and disordered eating among adolescents. First, we define self-esteem as a precursor to adolescent body image and body satisfaction. Following, we review literature identifying links between social media use and adolescent body image with subsequent effects on disordered eating behaviors. Possible protective factors are also discussed. We end with limitations of prior studies and suggestions for future research.