Online influencers are individuals who have acquired large followings on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. They typically post videos or photos that showcase their daily lives, fashion choices, beauty routines, fitness regimes, travel adventures, and other aspects of their lifestyles. While some online influencers may be known for promoting healthy body image and positive self-esteem, others may promote unrealistic beauty standards and risky behaviors. As adolescents spend more time on social media, they are exposed to these messages and may begin to internalize them, leading to changes in their own beliefs about what is considered normal, desirable, and attractive. This can lead to significant effects on their sexual norms, romantic ideals, and self-image.
Sexual Norms
Online influencers often portray themselves as sexually confident and assertive, leading many young people to believe that this is the norm. They may post suggestive photos and videos that feature them flirting, kissing, or engaging in explicit acts. These posts can create pressure on teens to engage in similar behavior, even if it goes against their personal values or beliefs. Some studies suggest that girls who regularly view sexy social media content are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, including having multiple partners and unprotected sex. Boys may also feel pressured to act like "alpha males" by making aggressive sexual advances toward women or bragging about their conquests.
Romantic Ideals
Many online influencers present relationships as idealized fantasies rather than realistic experiences. They may showcase lavish dates and grand gestures, creating an impression that love and romance should always be dramatic and over-the-top. Teens may start to expect such treatment from their partners, which can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction when reality falls short of their expectations.
Influencer couples may gloss over conflicts and disagreements, giving the false impression that all relationships are perfect and happy. This can create unrealistic expectations for young people, especially those who may have experienced less stable or positive relationships in the past.
Self-Image
Social media has been linked to negative body image issues among adolescents, with many feeling pressured to conform to unattainable beauty standards. Online influencers often portray themselves as flawless and perfect, leading some teens to believe that they must look a certain way to be attractive. This can lead to eating disorders, cosmetic procedures, and other unhealthy coping mechanisms. It can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes around gender roles, race, age, weight, ability, and other factors, making it harder for young people to accept and appreciate themselves as they are.
This can impact their self-esteem and confidence, leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation.
How do social media personalities and online influencers shape adolescents' sexual norms, romantic ideals, and self-image?
The influence of social media personalities and online influencers on adolescents' sexual norms, romantic ideals, and self-image has been widely studied by researchers. While there are multiple studies that have explored how these individuals can affect youth's perception of body image and sexual behaviors, there is little consensus on their impact on adolescent development.