According to a YouGov online survey commissioned by the AOK Federal Association, the use of social media platforms has an impact on young people's self-perception and body image. Around 1,500 people between the ages of 14 and 30 who use social networks were surveyed. These included around 160 young people aged 14 and 15 who were supported by their parents in answering the questions. According to this, almost two thirds of young people spend an average of up to three hours a day on social media platforms. 40 percent feel the pressure to be more beautiful, more successful and better.
“The results show that social media contributes to distorting young people’s self-image. “That’s why we demand that embellished images on the internet must be marked.”
AOK board chairwoman Dr. Carola Reimann.
Media literacy is closely related to health. That's why the AOK federal association is launching an educational campaign on social media on July 6th.
Effects on the self-image of young people
Social media such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat serve as a space for exchange and communication. As a result, the comparison options for adolescents have multiplied. One consequence of this development, which can be derived from the results of the survey: Many young people question their self-image because they compare themselves with idealized images. According to the survey, this is particularly evident among 14 to 15 year olds. They are strongly influenced by ideals that are presented to them on social media.
In the control group, 38 percent of respondents in this age group considered themselves attractive. In the experimental group that saw an attractive model before answering the questions, only 16 percent found themselves attractive. Overall, more than half of those surveyed came to the conclusion that it would actually be good for them to spend less time on social media platforms.
Editing photos and using beauty filters
Another result of the survey: Almost everyone (97 percent) edits photos of themselves, and almost one in three uses beauty filters. The complexion and face shape are most often optimized. The embellished photos and videos on the Internet cause others to perceive themselves as less beautiful and successful. According to the survey, almost half of 18 to 19 year olds say that the content on social media platforms makes them jealous of others. “We need legal regulations that require labeling for retouched advertising images and the use of beauty filters,” demands Reimann.
Dealing with social networks and the connection to reality
The discrepancy between self-perception and reality is also evident when assessing body weight. Girls tend to think their weight is too high more often than it actually is. And boys rather too low. Around 38 percent of 18- to 19-year-old male respondents feel that they are underweight in the sense of being less muscular. In fact, based on their own information about age, height and body weight (BMI), it is only 8 percent.
“It's not about demonizing social networks, but about finding an appropriate way to deal with them and not losing your connection to reality. “Young people need to be clear that what they see on social media is not reality,” says Dr. Carola Reimann.
“You are more than your Instagram profile”
With the information campaign, which starts on July 6th, the AOK wants to support teenagers and young adults in putting their usage behavior to the test. In a live online lecture “You are more than your Instagram profile”, those interested will receive helpful information and can talk to an expert in a live chat. Further content of the campaign includes posts and videos on Instagram and TikTok, in TV media libraries and streaming services, which are intended to raise awareness and educate young people: The ideals of the virtual world do not always correspond to reality. The aim is to encourage young people not to limit themselves to their contacts on social media.
More information: www.aok.de/selbstliebe
Also read: How social media affects the psyche of our teenagers
Source:
Press portal
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