Abstract:
This research analyses how Snapchat and altered beauty standards can distort the body
image of individuals when compared with one another thus they tend to develop dysmorphic
patterns which makes them opt for a cosmetic alteration. To create a relationship, the
responses were correlated through a survey based on the main variables Snapchat
Dysmorphia, Body Dissatisfaction, Social Comparison and Desire for Cosmetic Alteration
which was filled randomly by 418 university students of Islamabad.
To find out the intentions and attitude which could lead to increased desire for cosmetic
alteration, correlation and regression analysis proved a positive significance towards
Snapchat Dysmorphia. Additionally, a positive correlation of Snapchat Dysmorphia and
Body Dissatisfaction mediated by social comparison proved that people have inner
dysmorphic patterns that could be enhanced when exposed to digitally altered content. Two
groups of gender & those who follow beauty accounts or not, were examined separately to
know that females are more inclined towards Social Comparison. However, those who
follow beauty accounts have more tendency of Body Dissatisfaction among them.
The results illuminate the interconnectedness of these factors, contributing to an enriched
understanding of the complex interplay between digital self-perception and real-world body
image experiences. For a safety perspective, this study emphasizes on the need to
differentiate between real perceptions and digitally created self-images through media
literacy. The existing knowledge is extended by the intervention of Social Comparison
theory, paving way for other psychological and communication theories to link with this
new phenomenon.
