Social Media Usage and Body Image Perception in Young Adults: A Correlational Study

Abstract

This study explores the correlation between social media usage and body image satisfaction among young adults, focusing on mediating factors such as self-esteem and perceived social support. A sample of 200 participants aged 18-30 years was analyzed using Pearson correlation to assess relationships between variables. Results revealed a weak negative correlation between social media use and body image satisfaction (-0.12), suggesting that increased social media use is associated with a slight decline in body image satisfaction. Self- esteem (-0.24) and perceived social support (-0.21) also demonstrated weak negative correlations with body image satisfaction. The findings are contextualized using Social Comparison Theory and Cultivation Theory, highlighting that social media fosters unrealistic comparisons, leading to dissatisfaction. However, individual responses vary, indicating the need for mental health interventions promoting critical thinking about social media content. Future research should explore longitudinal studies and experimental designs to further investigate these relationships and the role of emotional regulation and social support types in mitigating negative effects on body image.