The Use of Social Networking Sites, Body Image Dissatisfaction, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder: A Systematic Review of Psychological Research

The escalation of social networking sites (SNS) usage has led to much research examining both the positive and negative implications SNS can have on well-being. However, although many studies have investigated the relationship between SNS usage and body image, there remains a paucity of research in...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Psychology of popular media 2020-10, Vol.9 (4), p.412-435
Main Authors: Ryding, Francesca C, Kuss, Daria J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Body Image
Dissatisfaction
Human
Online Social Networks
Risk Factors
Symptoms
Well Being
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Summary:The escalation of social networking sites (SNS) usage has led to much research examining both the positive and negative implications SNS can have on well-being. However, although many studies have investigated the relationship between SNS usage and body image, there remains a paucity of research in regard to SNS usage and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). A systematic search was undertaken using Web of Science, PsycINFO, and PubMed databases to identify SNS usage and patterns, SNS features, and mediating factors contributing toward body image dissatisfaction, resulting in 40 studies meeting specific inclusion criteria. Findings identified passive SNS use and appearance-focused SNS use as particularly influential. Appearance-based comparisons were also found to be a strong mediator between SNS use and body image dissatisfaction. Using the current knowledge, parallels were highlighted in terms of body image dissatisfaction and BDD symptomatology, suggesting frequent SNS usage as a potential risk factor in the development of BDD symptoms. Public Policy Relevance Statement Using social networking sites to engage in appearance comparisons may drive the development and maintenance of body dysmorphic disorder symptoms and should be considered as a risk factor in the development of the disorder. This article highlights that if social networking site research and recommendations aim to extend into being used in clinical assessment, a standardized definition of excessive social networking and social networking site frequency needs to be determined to allow for consistency in both research and clinical practice.
ISSN:2689-6567
2689-6575
DOI:10.1037/ppm0000264