In today's digital age, many individuals find themselves constantly seeking validation through their online presence. This behavior is often referred to as "hustle culture" and involves people attempting to gain success and approval by demonstrating their skills, abilities, and achievements on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, Reddit, etc.
This constant quest for popularity can have serious psychological consequences that go beyond just feeling embarrassed when someone doesn't like your post or comment.
One consequence of chronic pursuit of desirability is the development of anxiety and depression. Social comparison theory suggests that people naturally compare themselves to others in order to determine how they measure up socially. When individuals spend time on social media platforms where they see other people living seemingly perfect lives, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. They may become preoccupied with trying to emulate what they see, which can result in a loss of self-identity and sense of control.
The dopamine rush associated with receiving likes and comments can create an addiction-like behavior, leading to further mental health issues.
Another consequence is the development of narcissism. As people seek more and more attention online, they begin to focus solely on themselves and their own image rather than the needs and experiences of others. This can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding, making it difficult to form meaningful relationships both online and offline. Further still, this behavior can impact one's ability to regulate emotions, which can have long-term effects on overall well-being.
There is also the risk of developing an eating disorder. With so much emphasis placed on physical appearance on social media, many people feel pressure to conform to certain standards of beauty and fitness. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as dieting, overexercising, and excessive use of cosmetics or plastic surgery. In some cases, these behaviors can become obsessive and interfere with daily life, potentially causing serious physical harm.
The pursuit of desirability online can have far-reaching psychological consequences that extend beyond just feeling bad about oneself. It can lead to anxiety, depression, narcissism, and even eating disorders if not addressed early. By becoming aware of these potential side effects, individuals can take steps to mitigate them by setting boundaries around social media usage, seeking professional help when needed, and focusing on self-acceptance and self-care.
What psychological consequences arise from the chronic pursuit of online desirability?
The chronic pursuit of online desirability can have various psychological consequences on an individual's mental health. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, and social isolation. People who are constantly seeking validation through likes, comments, and followers may experience increased levels of stress and pressure to maintain their appearance and status.