FROM SELFIE TO SELF-DOUBT: THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN TEEN BODY DYSMORPHIA

Findings revealed that those using filters reported significantly lower body satisfaction compared to their unfiltered counterparts, as the enhanced images created a stark contrast between their filtered and natural appearances.

- DR HASEENA KABEER

Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder," yet in today's digital landscape, beauty standards are dictated not by individuality but by the shifting perspectives of a faceless audience online. Social media has become a powerful, often relentless force in shaping how young people perceive themselves, promoting narrow definitions of beauty that leave little room for diversity. For teenagers, platforms like Instagram and TikTok have turned beauty into a rigid standard, one measured by flawless skin, sculpted bodies, and polished selfies, all enhanced by filters and photo edits. These standards not only distort the concept of beauty but also fuel self-doubt as teens constantly compare themselves to idealized images. Over time, this pressure can lead to body dysmorphia, where perceived flaws become magnified through the harsh lens of social media. In a culture where validation is sought in likes and comments, the pursuit of beauty can overshadow self-worth, challenging the idea that true beauty is, in fact, subjective and personal. Understanding the impact of these media-driven ideals on young minds is crucial as we work to help teenagers value their unique selves beyond filters, beyond screens, and beyond others' expectations.