Many social media users enhance their selfies on platforms like Instagram to boost their appearance. Yet, new research reveals that when women recognize edits in images of thin, sexualized women, these photos have far less negative impact on their mental health across the board.
Decades of studies link exposure to thin, sexualized images with 'thin ideal internalization'—placing excessive value on slimness—which can trigger eating disorders and other mental health issues. This study, however, shows women are far less prone to this when they suspect photo editing.
Participants also judged women who shared edited selfies more harshly. Negative perceptions intensified when viewing peers rather than professional models.
The study surveyed 360 female college students, presented as evaluating popular Instagram images. All viewed the same 45 public selfies of thin women in revealing clothes. Researchers added icons to some, signaling Photoshop edits or Instagram filters.
Half the group believed the images depicted fellow students; the other half, New York City models. Within each group, half saw mostly edited photos, the rest mostly unedited.
Participants then completed assessments, including thin ideal internalization scales with statements like 'Thin women are more attractive than other women.'
Findings confirmed: greater perceived editing correlated with lower thin ideal internalization. Women trusted edit labels but suspected alterations in many unmarked photos too.
Higher beliefs in editing led viewers to see the selfies as bragging or jealousy-inducing. Edited photo subjects were rated less intelligent and honest, with peers judged more critically than models.
