The meeting was focused on the research of prof. Dr. Laura Vandenbosch on the impact of media on young audiences» self-perceptions In today’s society, young people sometimes spend more time in (digital) media than they do sleeping or studying. Much of the television content youth consume abound with beautiful girls and handsome guys. Similarly, the influencers they follow and the conversations they engage in on social media often include appearance-related messages. Knowing that a substantial part of young women and men struggle with their appearance, such media interaction may be problematic.
During the seminar we reviewed the most recent research insight on when and how such appearance messages on social media and television affect youth’s body image. In addition, the speaker touched on the body positivity movement and its potential to enhance positive body image in young people.