Beauty pressure on the internet: young people under the influence of social media!

Beauty pressure on the internet: young people under the influence of social media!

The topic of migration and integration is currently omnipresent in Cologne. A current survey shows that many people with a migrant background are dissatisfied and are considering emigrating from Germany. According to an article on Mirror They often feel a lack of appreciation and experience discrimination in everyday life. With an increasing number of people wanting to leave the country, the question arises: What do we have to change so that these talents and experiences stay in Germany?

The pressure from beauty ideals, often reinforced by social media, also plays a role. A new study carried out by the Austrian Institute for Applied Telecommunications on behalf of the ÖIAT and ISPA shows that young people suffer greatly from idealized body images. Over half of those surveyed would like to change something about their appearance, while 28% have thought about cosmetic surgery. This increases insecurity and undermines self-confidence, which can lead to increased migration of the younger generation. The report from Safer Internet deals with these urgent issues that also affect everyday school life.

The influence of social media

The study illustrates how the intense influence of influencers and social networks shapes young people's self-image. Around 71% of young people compare themselves with others based on pictures on social networks, which can lead to enormous pressure to perform. The researchers found that 65% of those surveyed see a connection between posted content and their own sense of beauty. Nearly 53% have changed their appearance because of social media. This number is alarming and shows how important education and media literacy are in schools and families.

No less worrying is the number of young people who are under pressure because of perfidious beauty ideals on the Internet. For girls, the number who want to change something about their appearance is as high as 60%. In this context, the survey emphasizes that a “reality check” through real social interactions is important to alleviate this pressure and promote a healthy self-image.

Strategies against pressure

In order to counteract the omnipresent pressure to be beautiful, the study authors recommend strategies such as self-acceptance and critical questioning of content. 67% of young people see self-acceptance as a way to reduce pressure. Parents also have a crucial role: 57% of those surveyed are of the opinion that parents are important for a critical approach to beauty ideals and themselves need support in media literacy.

Given these developments, it is essential that both schools and parents take action. Finding the balance between a positive self-image and the influence of social media remains a challenge that affects not only young people but also society as a whole. This makes it all the more important to talk openly about these challenges and find solutions.
More information can also be found in the current articles from Merz to read.