Canton R-V: The Effect Of Social Media On Young Girls

Canton R - V

The Effect of Social Media on Young Girls

Mallory Blessing LA III Mrs. Anderson 16 April, 2024 “Girls as young as eight have already begun to diet for weight loss.” (Purdy) Girls are being exposed to media that affects the way they perceive themselves at a very young age, which causes them to try and change their bodies, even when they don’t need to be changed. Self-esteem is how a person perceives themselves and how confident they feel. Content on social media pushes idealistic body types and lifestyles, many of which are truly unattainable. When young girls see this content, they feel like they are doing something wrong because they don’t look like the people they see online. When girls start comparing themselves to others, their self-esteem is drastically

“The media’s focus on thinness is one of the reasons people develop eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia.” (Conway 27) Most models that young girls compare themselves to are extremely thin, which is very unhealthy. Conway 22: Children comparing themselves to people who are unhealthy could cause them to try and change their bodies in unhealthy and harmful ways. Despite the wide array of negative effects of social media, many positive things come from it. “Social media may improve physical and mental health by providing a sense of community and reducing individual stress.” (Purdy) People coming together to create healthy environments can be beneficial. Unfortunately, the idea of community is rare and negativity is more common on social media.“Social media provides individuals with a myriad of opportunities that allow them to boost self-esteem.” (Purdy) Making friends and receiving and posting positive commentary and feedback can create an environment online that is positive and can make individuals feel like they are worthy and happy. Although some people on social media can make kind comments, those types of