The impact of social media for teens with eating disorders
Social media plays a significant role in the lives of most teens and adults today. Most of us have at least one, two, maybe three or more social media apps. They are part of the makeup of society and can have both positive and negative impacts on us, but one of the most vulnerable populations that is negatively impacted by social media are teens with eating disorders. Some of these harmful effects are so subtle because we are used to seeing them everywhere and that’s where the real problem begins. Here are some that are most common dangers of social media for teens with eating disorders:
Unrealistic Beauty Standards
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat often showcase images of "ideal" bodies—thin, toned, and flawless. These photos are very frequently edited or filtered, creating unrealistic beauty standards. For young teens still exploring and developing their sense of self, constant exposure to these images can lead to body dissatisfaction, which is a key factor in the development of eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia.
The Need for Validation
Social media thrives on likes, comments, and views, which teens often use as validation for their self-worth. When positive feedback is received on appearance-based posts, it can lead to an unhealthy focus on looks. Conversely, negative feedback or lack of attention can contribute to feelings of rejection, fueling behaviors like restrictive eating or excessive exercise.
The Influence of “Fitspiration”
The rise of "fitspiration" content—featuring workout routines, meal plans, and weight-loss tips—can normalize unhealthy dieting and extreme exercise. Although some of this content promotes fitness, much of it emphasizes weight loss and thinness as markers of success, which can drive teens to adopt unhealthy behaviors to conform to these ideals.
The Danger of Curated Reality
Social media often presents a curated, perfect version of life that doesn’t reflect real-world struggles or imperfections. Teens may compare themselves to these idealized images and feel inadequate, exacerbating body dissatisfaction and increasing the risk of developing eating disorders.
So what can you do about it? Here are some tips on how to build healthy social media habits:
Promote Social Media Literacy: Teach teens to question the images they see online and understand that most are edited, staged, or heavily filtered. Take every post with a grain of salt.
Encourage Positive Accounts: Help teens follow influencers and platforms that celebrate body positivity, self-compassion, confidence, and self-acceptance.
Open Conversations: Create a safe space for discussing body image and the pressures of social media. Validate how hard it is find real images online in a time when everything is filtered and airbrushed.
Set Boundaries: Encourage breaks from social media and time spent with content that fosters positive self-image.
Social media can have a negative impact on teens' body image and mental health, contributing to the rise of eating disorders. By fostering open conversations, promoting healthy media habits, and encouraging a balanced online experience, we can help protect teens from its harmful effects and support their mental well-being.
