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Associations between TikTok facial filter use and body image variables
Nicolas S Caravelli1, Haley A Henriksen1, Aaron J Blashill2
1Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182, United States.
TikTok facial filter use is linked to body image concerns. Appearance-enhancing filters significantly correlate with negative body image, while goofy filters do not when both are considered.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Media Studies
- Body Image Research
Background:
- Social media use is associated with body image concerns.
- Face-altering filters may negatively impact appearance perceptions.
- No prior studies have examined TikTok facial filters' impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the relationship between TikTok facial filter use, facial dissatisfaction, and body image concern.
- Examine the impact of appearance-enhancing and goofy filters on body image outcomes.
- Determine if filter type influences the association with body image concerns.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 397 undergraduate students reporting recent TikTok use.
- Assessed social media use, facial dissatisfaction, and body image concerns.
- Utilized linear regression to analyze associations between filter use and body image.
Main Results:
- Both appearance-enhancing and goofy filter use showed positive associations with body image concerns.
- Appearance-enhancing filter use remained a significant predictor of body image concerns.
- Goofy filter use lost statistical significance when analyzed alongside appearance-enhancing filters.
Conclusions:
- TikTok facial filter use, particularly appearance-enhancing filters, is associated with body image concerns.
- Further research using experimental or longitudinal designs is needed to establish causality.
- Understanding the temporal relationship between filter use and body image is crucial.
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