Comparing the Impact of Screen Time Modes on Body Image for Men and Women
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.1436Keywords:
Mental health, Self Image, Self Esteem, Body image, Body Dysmorphia, Eating Disorders, Screen Time, Social Media, Video Games, Television, Mental Health, Muscle Dysmorphia, Video Gaming, Broadcast, TV, Phone, ComputerAbstract
People spend more time today online than ever before. However, spending more time online may be linked to decreased self-esteem and increased body dissatisfaction, eating disorders, and body dysmorphic disorders. This paper examines how screen time affects the body image of men and women. A literature review was conducted comparing popular modes of screen time such as social media, television viewing, and gaming with their effects on the body image of men and women. We found that for both men and women, there was generally a negative correlation between screen time on social media and body image, while there was no significant correlation for screen time playing video games and body image. Television viewing appeared to negatively affect the body image of women only and not men. To better understand how screen time affects the body image, self image, and mental health of men and women, more extensive research can be done including more diverse demographics and modes of online platforms.
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