Influence of social media on body image dissatisfaction among adolescents and young adults

Body image dissatisfaction is a growing concern among adolescents and young adults, often intensified by the pervasive influence of social media. This study explores how platforms often contribute to negative self-perception by promoting unrealistic beauty standards, encouraging peer comparison, and increasing admiration for social media influencers. We conducted as a cross-sectional descriptive study in Thiruvalla Taluk, data were collected from 500 students across schools and colleges using structured questionnaires. The findings revealed that prolonged screen time, use of photo-enhancement tools, and exposure to idealized images significantly correlate with body image dissatisfaction. Female participants showed greater dissatisfaction than males, and young adults were more affected than adolescents. These results emphasize the urgent need for digital literacy, psychological support, and awareness programs that promote body positivity and challenge unrealistic socialnorms perpetuated online.