Role of Social Media in Comparing Physical Appearance, Body Dissatisfaction and Drive for Thinness

The role of social media in shaping physical appearance perceptions, body dissatisfaction, and the drive for thinness has become a significant area of study in recent years. Social media platforms often promote unrealistic beauty standards among women. This quantitative research was conducted by using correlational research design. Survey was administered with the help of questionnaire as a method of data collection. Sample of 103 women (unmarried=44, married=59). were selected through convenient sampling. Findings of the study reveal that significant positive correlation was found between using social media, comparing physical appearance, body dissatisfaction and drive for thinness. In addition, using social media is a significant positive predictor of comparing physical appearance, body dissatisfaction and drive for thinness. Furthermore, unmarried females reported higher level of using social media, comparing physical appearance, body dissatisfaction and drive for thinness as compared to married. It is recommended that in future research addressed the need for awareness and interventions to mitigate the harmful effects of social media on body image and mental well-being.