Social Media and Female Body Image: A Study on the Imposition of Body Characterization in Tobago

Abstract

The popularity of social media has grown considerably over the past few years and has taken a foothold in society. This study examined the connection between extensive social media use and the way people view their bodies in relation to what is seen in the images and messages portrayed on social media. Emphasis is placed on social media and whether it has a negative impact on body image and if it leads to body dissatisfaction. A mixed method approach was taken to collect data on females residing in Tobago and how they perceive body image. Survey participation was both voluntary and anonymous. Participants were females above the age of 15. Additionally, focus groups were conducted among Tobago women ranging between ages 16- 56 to further supplement the statistical data collected. The study and the data collected examined how social media influenced the way that women view themselves. The data collected and the research took into consideration how the participants were affected by their exposure to the various social media platforms and their messages. While the information gathered shows there is a correlation between social media and negative body image, there is no evidence to prove that social media has a direct impact on one’s body image.