Self-schema and self-discrepancy mediate the influence of Instagram usage on body image

satisfaction among youth

What is it about?
This study focuses on the direct effect of Instagram usage on body satisfaction and finding out
whether this effect is mediated by appearance self-schema and self-discrepancy, while also
taking account whether self-esteem moderates this effect. They also touched on how a social
media platform, specifically Instagram for this instance, provides a platform for self-presentation
and showcasing of a user’s self-image. This is important because this study could prove how
Instagram, or any other social media platform potentially affects a person’s self-esteem and self-
consciousness when posting a picture online.
Methodologies/Procedure:
Researchers Ahadzadeh, Sharif, and Ong conducted an online survey in which they were able to
receive a total of 273 responses from university students who were all using Instagram. The
online survey contained questions regarding demographic characteristics, Instagram usage, self-
schema, self-discrepancy, body satisfaction and self-esteem. After collecting the data, the
researchers used Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling to test the research
hypotheses.
Findings:
Based on the results, appearance self-schema and self-discrepancy mediated the influence of
Instagram use on body satisfaction. Furthermore, the negative effect of Instagram usage on body
satisfaction through self-schema and self-discrepancy became stronger for those with a lower
level of self-esteem.
Related to Class:
This study is a great example of the topic social media which we covered in class. It was able to
provide insight of the effects of Instagram on today’s generation on what they considered
satisfactory of their own body image. Additionally, it also showed how Instagram affected a
person’s satisfaction depending on their self-esteem. To conclude, this study is beneficial in
raising awareness on issues that come with social media and allowing future users to be wary of
them.
Reference:

Ahadzadeh, A. S., Sharif, S. P., & Ong, F. S. (2016, November 18). Self-schema and self-
discrepancy mediate the influence of Instagram usage on body image satisfaction among
youth. Computers in Human Behavior. Retrieved February 12, 2022, from
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S074756321630752X?
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