Author: Bhakti Prasanna Kulkarni & Dr. Lancy D’Souza
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/04042010
Abstract: The study examined the relationship between social media usage patterns on body image perception and self-esteem among young adults, with particular emphasis on social comparison and digital image editing engagement. Using a quantitative cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 132 participants aged between 18 and 25 years through standardized psychological measures assessing social comparison, body shape concerns, image editing behaviors, and self-esteem, along with a demographic questionnaire. Descriptive analyses indicated that most participants reported spending three to four hours daily on social media, with Instagram being the most frequently used platform. Inferential analyses, including chi-square test and analysis of variance, revealed significant associations between social media use and psychosocial outcomes. Greater exposure with digitally edited images were significantly associated with higher levels of social comparison and increased body shape concerns. Differences in selfesteem were observed across levels of editing engagement. Gender differences were observed, with male participants reporting higher body shape concerns and lower self-esteem compared to females. Platformspecific analyses indicated that Snapchat and Facebook users demonstrated significantly greater body shape concerns and lower self-esteem than Instagram and YouTube users. Overall, the findings suggests that digitally edited imageengagement may play a meaningful role in shaping young adults’ self-perception and psychological well-being. These findings underscore the relevance of media literacy and responsible digital engagement initiatives.
Keywords: Digitally Edited Images, Social Media Use, Body Image Perception, Self-Esteem, Social Comparison, Young Adults.
Page No: 67-75