The rise of social media has led to an unprecedented level of self-presentation and self-promotion, with individuals increasingly using online platforms to share their lives, experiences, and physical appearances. Online forums and social media platforms have created new spaces for people to connect, share, and discuss their interests, including their physical appearance. However, these online environments also perpetuate and amplify societal beauty standards, often promoting unrealistic and unattainable ideals of physical attractiveness.
This study employed a critical discourse analysis approach, examining online posts and discussions on various forums and social media platforms. The data sample consisted of 500 online posts and comments from popular beauty and fitness forums, as well as social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.
"The Construction of Perfect Body Image on Social Media: A Critical Analysis of Online Forums and the Representation of Idealized Physicality"