Exploring Protective Factors of Social Media Against Maladaptive Eating Behaviors: A Pilot Study
Introduction: The relationship between online content and disordered eating is an evolving area of research. This study aimed to assess the perceived impact of positive social media content on self-image and eating habits among children and adolescents aged 10-22. Methods: A survey incorporating so...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Bucharest College of Physicians
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Modern Medicine |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://medicinamoderna.ro/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Exploring-Protective-Factors-of-Social-Media-Against-Maladaptive-Eating-Behaviors-A-Pilot-Study.pdf |
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| Summary: | Introduction: The relationship between online content and disordered eating is an evolving area of research. This study aimed to assess the perceived impact of positive social media content on self-image and eating habits among children and adolescents aged 10-22.
Methods: A survey incorporating social media usage patterns and the validated Disordered Eating Attitude Scale (DEAS) was distributed via QR code to patients at IRB-approved sites.
Results: Of the participants (n=12), weak correlations were found between DEAS scores and both negative (r = 0.18, p = 0.53) and positive (r = -0.03, p = 0.93) social media content consumption. However, when negative content types were aggregated, a significant correlation emerged (r = 0.62, p = 0.04). Participants with higher DEAS scores more frequently internalized harmful weight-loss messages. Social media platforms most used included TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram, emphasizing the potential impact of online content on this vulnerable population.
Conclusion: This pilot study provides preliminary evidence linking negative social media exposure with disordered eating attitudes in youth. While limited by a small sample size, the findings highlight the need for larger-scale research to further investigate the relationship between social media, body image, and disordered eating, as well as the potential protective effects of positive content. |
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| ISSN: | 1223-0472 2360-2473 |