The increasing prevalence of digital media in modern society has brought about a new phenomenon known as "curated identity", which refers to the practice of carefully selecting and presenting certain aspects of one's life for public consumption through online platforms like Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, etc. This article will explore how this trend impacts individuals' perception of themselves and their sense of belongingness, and whether it may have unintended negative consequences.
How does exposure to curated social media identities influence self-perception?
Exposure to curated social media identities can lead people to compare themselves negatively to others who appear more successful, popular, attractive, or well-adjusted than they are.
Research suggests that individuals exposed to images of conventionally attractive people tend to underestimate their own attractiveness (Dittmar & Howard, 2014). Similarly, people who view celebrities living lavish lifestyles may feel dissatisfied with their own financial status (Hampton et al., 2016). This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and anxiety.
Individuals who see other people sharing only positive experiences online may internalize an idealized version of reality, making them feel like they are missing out if their lives do not measure up. Such comparisons can create a sense of isolation and loneliness, as individuals begin to question why they cannot attain such seemingly effortless success. These emotional effects can be particularly harmful for young adults, who are still developing their identity and self-concept.
The selective presentation of certain aspects of one's life through curated identities can make it difficult for individuals to connect with others on a deeper level. When people share only highlight reels rather than complete pictures of their lives, it becomes challenging to form genuine connections based on shared experiences or struggles. As a result, individuals may become disconnected from friends and family members who have different interests, backgrounds, or values than those presented on social media.
How does exposure to curated social media identities influence social anxiety?
The pressure to present oneself favorably on social media can also contribute to anxiety related to social interactions. Individuals who post only highly edited images of themselves may experience increased self-consciousness about their appearance or performance in real-life settings. They may worry that others will judge them harshly if they do not live up to the image they have created online (Davis et al., 2016). This can lead to fears of rejection, avoidance of social situations, and decreased enjoyment of interpersonal relationships.
The prevalence of trolling and cyberbullying on social media platforms can amplify these feelings. Individuals may feel vulnerable to criticism and attack by strangers, leading to heightened social anxiety and self-doubt.
Individuals who post controversial content may face backlash from peers or even family members who disagree with their views, further exacerbating existing insecurities.
Comparing oneself to curated identities on social media can create unrealistic expectations for interpersonal communication, resulting in increased anxiety during actual interactions.
Someone who sees numerous posts featuring people expressing confidence and assertiveness might feel intimidated when interacting with someone whose communication style is more reserved or quiet.
How does exposure to curated social media identities influence emotional health?
Exposure to curated social media identities can impact one's overall wellbeing. The constant comparison and desire to appear successful and attractive can contribute to a sense of stress and pressure, which over time can manifest as depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues (Rosenfeld & Calo, 2018). Such pressures can also lead to addictive behaviors, such as excessive use of social media or comparisons that consume large amounts of time and energy.
Online engagement may be particularly harmful for those who have difficulty regulating emotions or experience negative emotions intensely. It can become difficult for them to distinguish between real and idealized versions of life, leading to a perpetual cycle of disappointment and frustration.
The selectivity of information presented on social media can contribute to unrealistic perceptions of others' lives, which can result in increased feelings of envy or jealousy. Individuals may become disenchanted with their own accomplishments or experiences, leading to a decrease in motivation and self-esteem.
Exposure to curated social media identities can significantly influence individuals' perception of themselves, their interpersonal relationships, and their overall emotional wellbeing. While these platforms offer unique opportunities for connection and expression, they must be used responsibly to avoid negative consequences. By taking breaks from social media, seeking support systems, and focusing on reality rather than ideals, individuals can maintain positive mental and emotional health while interacting online.
How does exposure to curated social media identities influence self-perception, social anxiety, and emotional health?
Exposure to curated social media identities can influence self-perception, social anxiety, and emotional health of individuals in several ways. Social media platforms are designed to showcase only selected parts of an individual's life, and this can lead to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and comparison with others who seem to have better lives than them.