The Dark Side of Social Media: How It’s Affecting Men’s Body Image
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 Threat: Muscle Dysphoria
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 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 Importance of Social Media Engagement
Placing a higher importance on likes and comments on social media has been linked to being at 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 Validation
Researchers found that the social validation found on social media platforms can have a negative impact on how men perceive their bodies. "Previous research has largely focused on women, but we’re now seeing that men are also vulnerable to the pressures of online body ideals," said Luigi Donnarumma, who led the study. "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."
The Consequences 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.
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for awareness about the impact of social media on men’s body image and the importance of promoting healthy habits and self-acceptance. By understanding the risks of muscle dysmorphia, we can work towards creating a more positive and inclusive online environment that promotes self-love and self-acceptance, rather than self-doubt and self-criticism.
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: How does social media contribute to muscle dysphoria?
A: Social media platforms can provide a platform for individuals to compare their bodies to the "perfect" ones online, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
Q: What can be done to prevent muscle dysphoria?
A: Promoting healthy habits, self-acceptance, and self-love, as well as creating a positive and inclusive online environment, can help prevent muscle dysphoria.
Q: How can individuals overcome muscle dysphoria?
A: Seeking professional help, practicing self-care, and reframing negative thoughts and beliefs about the body can help individuals overcome muscle dysphoria.
