Self-esteem and Socialisation in Social Networks as Determinants in Adolescents’ Eating Disorders

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Eating disorders (EDs) are mental health illnesses characterized by abnormal eating habits and specific psychopathological symptoms that affect the population. During adolescence, self-esteem may be associated with the construction of one’s body image.

To understand the connection between EDs and SNs (social networks), the theory of objectification and the reality of being a woman in a culture that sexually objectifies the female body must be addressed. 

Pressures to lose weight through seeing diet content and thinness promotion online are very common, and can lead to body dissatisfaction. Although the use of SNs can focus on information-seeking, communication, building and maintaining relationships, many people end up making ascending and descending comparisons with other users. Through upward comparisons, people may envy the characteristics of others, which negatively affect self-esteem.

Knowledge of the relationship between the use of SNs and self-esteem related to EDs is necessary to promote prevention in the use of these media, generating skills and providing sufficient information so as not to succumb to the messages issued on SNs about the Western ideal of body perfection.

Paula Frieiro MSW, Rubén González-Rodríguez PhD, José Domínguez-Alonso PhD. Self-esteem and socialisation in social networks as determinants in adolescents’ eating disorders. Health and Social Care, First published: 25 May 2022