Social media as a factor in the formation of eating disorders among students

this article presents the results of an empirical study examining the influence of social media on eating disorders, using a questionnaire-based survey among a sample of 36 first-year college students. A qualitative analysis of respondents' responses to the survey questions is presented across three areas: attitudes toward food and its consumption, body image perception, and body image-building activities. A predisposition to certain disorders (distorted body image, preoccupation with food, intense weight anxiety, etc.) is identified. Individual personality traits of students that characterize their susceptibility to social media influence and serve as predictors of eating disorders are identified. Factors contributing to the development of body dysmorphic disorder, the pursuit of idealized beauty standards, and the development of unhealthy behavior patterns, including dieting and excessive weight preoccupation are analyzed. The results demonstrate that constant comparison with media images, exposure to influencers, and exposure to content with a negative message can increase students' vulnerability to eating disorders. The article also explores potential areas of prevention and support, including improving media literacy and developing a critical perception of information on social media to reduce the risk of developing eating disorders.

student age, eating disorders, social media, social attitude, prevention program