Elvenia Gray-Sandiford
In today’s digital age, the influence of social media algorithms on our lives is undeniable. Recent revelations have shed light on the concerning impact of these algorithms on vulnerability and content consumption, particularly on platforms like TikTok, highlighting a pressing need for scrutiny and action.
The pervasive use of algorithms on platforms like TikTok has raised alarms. These algorithms meticulously curate content based on user preferences and behaviours, creating a personalized experience for each user. However, this tailored approach often perpetuates harmful societal norms and unrealistic beauty standards. Videos promoting favoured content receive user feedback, fueling a cycle of comparison and self-doubt. Consequently, individuals — especially teenagers — face immense pressure to conform to an unattainable standard of beauty, leading to increased spending on products and procedures aimed at enhancing physical appearance.
Furthermore, media portrayal exacerbates body image dissatisfaction, particularly among teenagers. Girls and boys are bombarded with idealized images of beauty, setting unrealistic expectations. Teenage girls feel pressured to attain a tall, slender, and underweight ideal, while boys are expected to have muscular, athletic physiques. This constant exposure to unattainable ideals contributes to dissatisfaction with one’s physical appearance, fueling a rise in eating disorders and muscle dysmorphia.
Teenagers, in particular, are vulnerable to the effects of social media algorithms and media portrayal. Adolescence is a period of significant physical and emotional development, where individuals are forming their identities and seeking acceptance from peers. The relentless pressure to conform to idealized standards of beauty propagated by social media platforms can have detrimental effects on teenagers’ self-esteem and mental well-being, where the constant comparison to curated and filtered images of perfection can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a distorted perception of one’s own body.
The prevalence of body dissatisfaction among teenagers, exacerbated by social media algorithms and media portrayal, has serious consequences and is now increasingly prevalent among adolescents, affecting all genders and socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, the pressure to achieve unrealistic beauty standards can lead to unhealthy behaviours, such as crash dieting, excessive exercise, and even steroid misuse among boys striving for muscularity.
These harmful patterns not only pose immediate risks to teenagers’ physical health but also have long-term implications for their psychological well-being and overall quality of life. As such, addressing the negative impact of social media algorithms and media portrayal on teenagers must be a priority for educators, parents, and policymakers alike.
In response to these pressing concerns, collective action is needed to prioritize user well-being over profits. Promoting media literacy is crucial, empowering individuals to critically evaluate the content they consume and distinguish between harmful and helpful messages. Additionally, comprehensive strategies are needed to combat harmful stereotypes, with a focus on addressing weight-related harassment and disordered eating behaviours through anti-bullying initiatives.
As we navigate the intricate landscape of social media, we must recognize the immense power and responsibility of algorithmic technologies. By fostering media literacy, promoting ethical practises, and challenging harmful stereotypes, we can create a safer and more inclusive online environment that benefits individuals of all ages. Together, let us work towards a digital world that uplifts and empowers us all.
