The following is an article about how magazines and online platforms shape teenagers' perceptions of attractiveness and body image:
Attractiveness and body image are significant factors that influence teenagers' self-esteem and confidence levels. Magazines and online platforms play a vital role in shaping their perspectives on these issues. Magazines are physical publications while online platforms refer to websites, social media, and blogs. Teenagers often read magazines for entertainment, education, inspiration, and recreation. Online platforms allow them to connect with people globally and access various resources quickly. The most common types of magazines among teenagers include fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and health magazines. They are easy to find in bookstores, grocery stores, and supermarkets.
Online platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Pinterest, etc., provide instant access to various materials without leaving home. Teenagers can browse through photos, videos, articles, and blog posts that promote different ideas about attractiveness and body image. This constant exposure to such material has negative effects on their perception of themselves and others.
It creates unrealistic expectations of what is considered 'attractive,' leading to low self-esteem when they compare themselves with others who meet those standards.
Magazines and online platforms use stereotypical and unrealistic images of men and women to sell products or create interest in their content. As such, the information presented may be misleading, exaggerated, and biased.
Teenagers tend to consume this information without critically evaluating its accuracy, truthfulness, and relevance. Consequently, they develop a skewed perception of reality, believing that there is only one way to look or behave sexually. Such distorted notions undermine their sense of identity and belonging, particularly if they do not fit into these rigid definitions of attractiveness.
Teenage girls are more vulnerable than boys because the media portrays them as thin, tall, fair-skinned, and flawless. Magazines and online platforms also emphasize gender roles, perpetuating patriarchal ideals and limiting female agency.
Young girls learn that their worth lies in how pleasing they look to men, while boys get the impression that masculinity equates to strength, power, and dominance. These messages reinforce harmful norms, discourage healthy relationships, and make it difficult for adolescents to accept and appreciate each other's diversity.
Teenagers need to become critical consumers of media content to avoid falling prey to manipulative tactics used by magazines and online platforms. They should question the reliability of sources, consider diverse perspectives, and reflect on how those ideas align with their values and beliefs. Parents can help by monitoring what their children view and discussing relevant topics openly. Schools can educate students about media literacy and teach them how to interpret media messages objectively.
Governments can regulate advertising standards and ensure that the media promotes positive body image and inclusivity.