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Research Question: How does the type of content posted by social media influencers (body-positive vs. idealized lifestyle) affect the self-esteem of young adult women, and to what extent does an individual’s predisposition towards social comparison moderate these effects? Description:
The quick rise of social media platforms has created a significant shift in how people perceive themselves, with influencers playing a central role in shaping public opinion, self-worth, and lifestyle choices. Social media influencers who are individuals who have obtained substantial followings online and exert significant sway over their audience often portray highly curated lifestyles. Their content, usually ranging from idealized beauty standards to fitness routines, has been shown to influence viewers’ perceptions of themselves, potentially impacting their self-esteem both negatively and positively.
Research has been conducted to show that the effects of social media usage are particularly seen among young adults, who are in a critical period of identity formation and self-evaluation. Studies have identified that exposure to the curated, filtered lives of influencers can lead to upward social comparisons, often leaving individuals feeling inadequate about their own lives. This circumstance can negatively affect self-esteem, particularly among those vulnerable to social comparison. However, not all effects are negative; some influencers promote
body positivity and mental health awareness, which has been found to improve viewers’ self-perception.
After briefly researching this topic as well as reflecting on my own experiences with social media, I found that much research focuses on the general impact of social media on mental health, but fewer studies specifically distinguish between types of influencer content and their differential impact on self-esteem. While the broader field has extensively studied the effects of idealized images, there is a gap in understanding how specific types of influencer contentᅳsuch as body-positive versus aspirational contentᅳuniquely affect different groups of people. Additionally, there is a need for more nuanced research examining how personal factors, such as one’s baseline level of self-esteem or predisposition toward social comparison, may moderate the influence of social media content.
As I explored the literature, I began to wonder: What role does the type of content posted by influencers play in affecting individuals’ self-esteem? How do different kinds of content (e.g., body positivity versus idealized lifestyles) impact people differently, and are there protective factors that may buffer against negative effects? These questions point to the need for further research that can guide how social media platforms and influencers may promote healthier content consumption patterns.
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