Body positive images on social media boost body satisfaction for men and women

University of SurreyJan 31 2024

Exposure to body positive imagery on social media increase body satisfaction and reduces weight concerns in both men and women, a new study from the University of Surrey reports.

During this unique study, researchers examined body positive and idealized body images appearing on the Instagram app and the impact they have on both men and women. Previous research in this area has explored the impact such images have on women however little is known about the effect on men.

Body image concerns are considered a public health problem. The rise of social media, in particular Instagram, means that young women and men are more exposed to images of the 'perfect body' making them highly critical of themselves.

The body positivity movement aims to challenge unrealistic body portrayals and promote a diverse and inclusive body representation. The movement has become very popular but often seen as focusing on women only. A significant number of men use Instagram, but little is known about the impact the images they see in their feed have on them."

Dr Fabio Fasoli, Senior Lecturer in Social Psychology, University of Surrey

To investigate, 207 young men and women were recruited and measurements of positive and negative moods, body satisfaction, drive for thinness and drive for masculinity were firstly assessed. Participants were then exposed to idealized body (thin, fit women wearing a bikini or shirtless men flexing abs), body-positive (women/men of varying body shape, size, and features) or control imagery (landscapes and animals) and initial measurements again repeated.

Researchers found that exposure to idealized body imagery decreased positive mood and body satisfaction in both men and women. In contrast, body-positive imagery increased body satisfaction and decreased the drive for thinness in both men and women. Interestingly body-positive imagery did not decrease men's concerns about their muscularity. Researchers suggest that body positivity is perceived as being about plus-size bodies more than any other body characteristics.

Dr Fasoli added:

"Exposure to body positive images on Instagram can be beneficial for both men and women. Such images are important in reminding people that all our bodies are different and not to compare themselves to unrealistic images posted on social media platforms."

This study was published in the journal Acta Psychologica.