The Dark Side of Social Media: How It Can Contribute to Muscle Dysphoria in Men
They say comparison is the thief of joy — but comparing one’s body to the "perfect" ones on social media isn’t the only way apps like Instagram and TikTok can mess with body image.
A New Study Reveals the Problem
A University of South Australia study found that another social media habit among men is an indicator that they may obsess over their physiques — to the point of muscle dysphoria.
The Importance of Social Media Engagement
Placing a higher importance on likes and comments on social media has been linked to being at a higher risk for muscle dysmorphia, a type of body dysmorphia. Published in New Media & Society, the study found that men can be deeply affected by how many likes and comments they receive on posts about their bodies.
The Impact of Social Media on Body Image
The researchers discovered further evidence that this troubling habit can be a risk factor of "body image disturbance," but you wouldn’t be able to tell by trawling through the accounts they follow or reading their DMs.
The Prevalence of Muscle Dysphoria
Muscle dysphoria is severe enough that sufferers’ daily functioning is often impaired: they may resort to extreme diet and exercise regimens and prioritize those habits over socializing.
The Study’s Findings
The researchers tested participants for indicators of muscle dysmorphia, then had them rate how important it was that they receive social media engagement. They were unsurprised to see that having more muscle dysphoria indicators was "significantly" correlated with placing a high importance on social media likes and comments.
The Consequences of Social Media Validation
Researchers found that the social validation found on social media platforms can have a negative impact on how men perceive their bodies.
Conclusion
The study’s lead author, Luigi Donnarumma, notes that previous research has largely focused on women, but this study shows that men are also vulnerable to the pressures of online body ideals. "Muscle dysmorphia is an emerging issue, and our study shows that social media isn’t just a platform for sharing content: it’s a powerful source of social validation that can significantly impact how young men perceive their bodies."
FAQs
Q: What is muscle dysphoria?
A: Muscle dysphoria is a type of body dysmorphic disorder characterized by a preoccupation that one’s body is insufficiently muscular or lean.
Q: What are the symptoms of muscle dysphoria?
A: Symptoms of muscle dysphoria may include excessive exercise and dieting, as well as a preoccupation with one’s body shape or size.
Q: Can social media contribute to muscle dysphoria?
A: Yes, social media can contribute to muscle dysphoria by providing a platform for individuals to compare their bodies to others and receive validation through likes and comments.
Q: What can be done to address muscle dysphoria?
A: Addressing muscle dysphoria requires a combination of therapy, self-care, and a healthy body image. It’s essential to focus on overall health and well-being rather than physical appearance.