Differences in Body Image Misperception, Body Satisfaction, and Physical Activity According to SNS Use in Male College Students

Objectives This study examined differences in body image misperception, body satisfaction, physical activity, and muscle strength according to social networking service (SNS) usage characteristics among male college students. Methods Fifty male college students participated. SNS usage frequency, daily usage time, and preferred video content length were surveyed. Body image perception, body satisfaction, and physical activity were assessed via questionnaires, while BMI, relative grip strength, and relative back strength were directly measured. Data were analyzed using frequency analysis, cross-tabulation, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Duncan’s multiple range test. Results Most participants perceived themselves as thinner than their actual body type, indicating a high level of body image misperception. Participants with higher SNS usage frequency exhibited lower body satisfaction(p<.05) and significantly lower relative back strength(p<.05). However, no significant differences were found in body image misperception, physical activity, or muscle strength based on SNS usage time or video content length. Conclusions SNS usage frequency among male college students was significantly related to body satisfaction and relative back strength. These findings suggest the importance of health education and counseling strategies for young men amid rising digital media use.