The relationship between Instagram selfies and body image in young adult women

Authors

  • Charles Wagner
  • Ester Aguirre Trinity University
  • Erin M. Sumner Trinity University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v21i9.6390

Keywords:

Selfies, Instagram, Body Image, Body Dissatisfaction

Abstract

This study observed the relations between actual body size, body dissatisfaction, frequency of selfies taken, and number of Instagram selfies posted. Results indicated that actual body size was positively related to body dissatisfaction, and negatively related to the number of selfies taken. Results also revealed a positive relationship between body dissatisfaction and selfies taken. Conversely, no correlations were detected between the frequency of selfies posted to Instagram and either actual body size or body image dissatisfaction.

Author Biographies

Charles Wagner

Charles Wagner graduated from Trinity University in 2016 with a Business Analytics and Technology and Communication double major. He is currently following his passions for helping others and solving complex problems by working for PriceWaterhouseCoopers as a technology consultant in Chicago. He hopes one day to return to school for his MBA and continue his journey to learn, practice, and teach all things technology and communication.

Ester Aguirre, Trinity University

Ester Aguirre is a current student at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. She will graduate with a degree in Political Sciences and a minor in Spanish.

Erin M. Sumner, Trinity University

Erin M. Sumner (Ph.D. 2012, Arizona State University) is an Assistant Professor of Human Communication at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. Her primary research interests examine the interpersonal and relational dynamics of computer-mediated communication. Her work has appeared in journals such as Communication Monographs, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, New Media & Society, Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, Communication Methods and Measures, and Communication Reports.

Downloads

Published

2016-08-18

How to Cite

Wagner, C., Aguirre, E., & Sumner, E. M. (2016). The relationship between Instagram selfies and body image in young adult women. First Monday, 21(9). https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v21i9.6390