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THE INFLUENCE OF WESTERN MEDIA TO THE PERSPECTIVE ON

BEAUTY STANDARDS OF 13–17-YEAR-OLD TEENS IN JBHS

Catulin, Isaac Ferdinand D.

Bautista, Joshua Paul G.

Feria, Moira Dustine M.

Donor, Inna Marie M.

Lopez, Joey Marie B.

Neyra, Vhea A.

Basic Education Department – Junior Business High School University of

Perpetual Help System Dalta

Mr. Mirell D. Angob, LPT

May 2023
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter I The Problem and Its Background 3

Background of the Study 3

Statement of the Problem 3

Significance of the Study 5

Scope and Limitations 7

Operational Definition of Terms 9

Chapter II Review of Related Literature and Studies 11

Review of Related Literature 11

Review of Related Studies 15

Chapter III. Methodology 18

Research Design 18

Locale of the Study 18

Participants and Sampling Technique 19

Research Instrument 21

Data Gathering Procedure 26

Statistical Treatment of Data 27

Chapter IV Presentation and Interpretation of Data 30

Presentation of Data: Demographics 30

Presentation of Data: Responses 30


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Interpretation of Data 55

Chapter V Summary of Findings, Conclusion, and

Recommendations 62

Summary of Findings 62

Conclusion 67

Recommendations 69
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CHAPTER 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Background of the Study

Within today’s society, there have long been established standards for beauty.

These are described to be unattainable and unrealistic, yet the majority resort to different

measures just to achieve the "ideal" appearance in order to fit in with societal standards.

During the 15th century, possessing a perfect body proportion of having a small waist

and an elevated upper body is an aspect to be considered "attractive" in tie ideals of

Western beauty.Hence, highly prominent with females regardless of its effects to their

bodies. This culture of "standard" has been passed down from generation to generation

and is now at its peak since the emergence of social media. Many Filipino teens,

particularly women, has been submerged into the society's perspective upon beauty.

According to Miami High News on March 7, 2022, today's standards for women

are small waists, long hair, and flawless skin, Girls are required to be this "perfect" image

regardless of the fact that nobody is perfect. Many girls these days believe that they must

conform to the "beauty standard” primarily because they have this image of other women

from social media, as a result, young women tend to lose their self-confidence. Even men

are less confident because of their beauty standard, which demands that they become

attractive, muscular, stylish, and successful. When a person reaches the age of 13, the

bites of adolescents they start to develop "self -consciousness" which drives them to be

conscious about how they look around their peers.


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Teens allow themselves to be consumed by what their surroundings say about their

appearance even if that means developing unhealthy habits and deteriorating self-esteem.

(Yasmina Kassir, 2021). Very well Mind, N.D., stated that it may cause one to have a

negative body image which later on can lead to the development of eating disorders such

as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating and mental health disorders like body

dysmorphia and depression. Beauty standards are one of the most alarming issues today,

yet it is barely seen as a problem within our society even though it contains many

disadvantages which affect the lives of teens. Numerous studies have discovered strong

associations between adolescent girls and young women’s wellbeing.

Most young girls are now more intent on winning over people by altering their

appearance to fit the modern Western Beauty Standard, which will give them a boost of

confidence and self-esteem. According to The Manila Times on July 15, 2022, the beauty

industry affects a female’s confidence and perception of the true meaning of beauty. The

ideal standards of beauty are deeply rooted in the culture of the Filipinos. It is instilled

amongst them even from childhood. Many Filipinas today are influenced by their

families since the ‘ideal beauty’ has been passed down from generation to the next. Thus.

The subject is one that is regularly debated in our paper which investigates the history

effects and ramifications of the Influence of Western Media to the perspective of beauty

standards of 13 - 17-year-old teens of the UPHSD.

Statement of the Problem


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Currently, several ideals of Western beauty have emerged through-out the

centuries. This unrealistic societal standard resulted to different issues regarding teens

and their well-being, especially to females (Cameron Davis, 2016). Due to the

connotations associated with beauty, such as goodness and sexuality, women’s and girls'

bodies are at the center of intrigue in cultures all over the world. At an early age, several

women developed a mindset of being expected to confirm with this “Standard”. Some are

influenced by their peers, and some are pressured by society's perspective (Miami High

News, 2022). This led several teens to resort to dangerous measures such as self-

starvation, binge-eating, and cosmetic surgeries that may lead to severe medical

conditions (WebMD, N.D.). In the Philippines, the western culture and standard became

highly prominent also because of colonial mentality. This resulted for young Filipino

teens to imitate what they think is considered “attractive” in order to fit in even if that

meets changing their entire appearance.

This research aims to provide an analysis on how western beauty standards

influence the mindsets of teens in UPHSD-Las Piñas Campus. In conducting this, we are

able to assess and become aware of its advantages and disadvantages which can lead to

the promotion of holistic and societal development.

Distinctively, it attempts to answer the following questions:

1. What is the profile of the respondents? In terms of:

1.1 Name

1.2 Sex

1.3 Age

2. Do Western Beauty Standards influence the respondents? In terms of:


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2.1 Interests

2.2 Daily Habits

2.3 Lifestyle

2.4 Eating Behaviors

3. What are the factors that influence the respondent's perspective of beauty? In terms of:

3.1 Peers

3.2 social media

3.3 Family

Significance of the Study

Through the analysis provided in this study, the researchers believe that five (5)

parties will benefit from the research to be conducted. These are specifically the

following:

Initially, the JBHS Department could gain a general understanding of the factors

that influence teen individuals’ mental health and how it contributes to the development

of self-scepticism. As a result, the department may be able to create initiatives to improve

the physical and mental health of their fellow young adolescents, particularly targeting

the management of mental health disorders throughout the Junior High School students.

Hereafter being responsible for regulating and administrating the social,

economic, and health affairs of the study’s locale, the JBHS SSC Officers will benefit

from the data acquired in this research. This paper shall provide analysis for students of

the effects of the ideals of Western beauty on the mental health of young adolescents

within the UPHSD-Las Piñas Campus. The findings in this study could be utilized and
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further explored. Thus, the JBHS SSC Officers may use these data to implement and

establish programs concerned with mental health problems that may affect the health of a

teen individual in the department.

This study aims to raise awareness among the students of the JBHS Department

about how Western beauty standards can make a teenager's life a living nightmare

wherein they suffer too much of themselves to make them look pretty just to reach the

standard of Western beauty. In this way, it can somehow help them gain a better

understanding and perspective of how attaining the Western beauty standard can affect

their own health, it could contain such negative side effects from forcing their body into a

shape that is not ideal for them. Thus, this study will help them realize they need to

change their negative habits—for it can affect their way of studying at such a young age

—and stop forcing themselves to make them look better—for it can as well put their lives

at stake.

The young adolescents of the UPHSD-Las Piñas Campus are the primary

subjects of this study, which will benefit them by raising awareness of the Western

beauty standards that cause them to have negative lifestyle, a social aspect that may lead

to its development. Learning about these issues will enable teenagers to understand the

importance of maintaining healthy habits in order to avoid the other negative long or

short-term effects. Thus, in this study, these young adolescents may be capable of

educating their peers—friends and family members—about other factors that influence

one’s cause of having negative habits. Through this, it could serve as a lesson for the
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younger teenagers to change their bad habits into proper ones as soon as possible for their

own good.

Lastly, the data and findings in this study may be used as a guide or reference for

Future Researchers. This paper covers information involving the the Influence of Western

Media to the Perspective of Beauty Standards of 13–17-year-old teens in JBHS. Thus, it

can open ways for expounded studies with the relevant subject or field.

Scope and Limitations

This research is focused on determining the influence of Western beauty

standards on the well-being of 13-17-year-old Teens in UPHSD Las Pinas Campus. The

main subjects of this study consist of teenagers enrolled in UPHSD, Las Pinas city. The

respondents are limited to fifty (65) young adolescents 13-17 years of age. This research

is to be conducted in the fourth quarter of the AY 2022-2023. This process aims to be

done through the stratified sampling technique. Furthermore, the data to be collected

from the participants involves their observation of personal experiences, and personal

habits.

Operational Definition of Terms

The following terms are even more defined operationally:

Appearance ideals. Students comprehend that restricted, shifting beliefs about

what individuals should seem like constitute appearance standards and are based

on opinions rather than facts. For the majority of people, it is actually impossible
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to meet these aesthetic standards; thus, attempting to do so is impractical,

meaningless, and sometimes destructive.

Beauty Standard. Shifting standards of what it means to be attractive and is

dependent on the cultural ideas of feminine beauty that are prevalent.

Body Image. An individual’s perception on their own appearance.

Eating Disorder. Any of a range of psychological disorders characterized by

abnormal or disturbed eating habits can sometimes be fatal due to the complex

and harmful interactions

with food.

Eating Habit. Reaction to social and cultural pressures, eating habits are

described as "conscious, communal, and repeated actions, which encourage

people to select, consume,

and utilize specific meals or diets."

Self-Consciousness. A heightened sense of self-awareness is self-consciousness.

It should not be confused with qualia-based awareness. In the past, "self-

consciousness" and "self-awareness" were used interchangeably to describe the

awareness of one's own existence and consciousness.

Societal Standards. A perspective that favors European culture and is prejudiced

towards non-Western cultures is known as eurocentrism.

Western Beauty. A quality that fits the western conception of beauty.

Wealthy body image. The feeling of ease and optimism upon viewing one’s

personal body.
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CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Review of Related Literature

Beauty is admired all over the world and has been countlessly referenced

throughout time. The study shows that there is a belief that Asians deeply seek

Westernization of their lifestyle as well as their appearance. Just like how fair skin with a

smooth texture has been revered for centuries in Asian countries. Through globalization,

ease of travel, and exposure to international media, our understanding of the ideals of

beauty, culture, and philosophy from various countries and regions is expanding each

day, just as every culture within the West has been rising. Like the terms "Korean beauty"

or "K-pop," they were not heard or understood in the West until quite recently these days,

in the years 2021 to 2022. (Samizadeh, S. 2022)

Standards of beauty are constantly changing, but many features of an individual

‘beautiful’ in 2020 that still attributed to Western norms. For years, the depiction of

beauty has always resonated with a colonial idea of beauty that favors the white race,
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particularly in women. Fair skin, light eyes and small bodies have always been

considered the beauty ‘norm’. This image plays a major role in the development of body

image and self-love. (Sajeea Bhatti, 2021)

Specifically, beauty is highly subjective. People and things can look very different

and be just as beautiful. Standards depend on space and time, and in this day and age, on

current trends. Some of the real and detrimental consequences of Western beauty

standards are the presence of skin bleaching creams, hair discrimination, media

demonization of black women, fat phobia, disability discrimination, etc. They’ve

internalized these messages and it's hard to resist. Peer pressure also contributes to eating

disorders. Pressure from parents and peers, emphasis on body shape in sports such as

ballet and gymnastics. Parental concerns about a girl's weight and teasing from parents

and peers contribute to the girl's physical dissatisfaction and need to diet or control her

diet in some way. (Copeland et al., 2015) Body Image disturbance occurs when there is

an extreme discrepancy between one’s body Image and the perceptions of others and

extreme dissatisfaction with one’s body (te’eni-harari, Eyal 2015).

In America and other Western countries, the media promotes an image of the

"ideal" as thin. The culture balances beauty, glamour, and ultimately well-being with

being super skinny, perfectly and physically fit. Wherein we often idealize actresses and

models with ugly looks and bodies, many of these celebrities are underweight or use

special effects to make them look thinner than they actually are. When culture sees being

overweight as a sign of laziness, lack of self-control, or apathy. It equates the pursuit of

the "perfect" body with beauty, glamour, success, and willpower. (Cruwys et al., 2015)
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In the world today, people see different ad campaigns and TV personalities that show

completely unrealistic beauty standards. These expectations are detrimental to a woman’s

self-esteem and can push them to make questionable decisions when it comes to their

own unique selves. Society’s beauty standards need to embrace all women. Unrealistic

beauty standards are a plague to today’s society. Women look around and see

expectations of what to look like everywhere around them. For instances this can lead to

mental health issues and other issues. It can also cause women to try to change

themselves to fit society’s image. A NEDA article titled “Body Image and Eating

Disorders” states that 40-60% of elementary school aged girls are concerned about their

weight. This problem starts at a young age and follows a woman her whole life.

Unfeasible body standards can lead to eating disorders and mental health

problems. The same article states that over half of teenage girls consequently skip meals,

fast, smoke cigarettes, vomit and take laxatives in order to control their weight. These

actions become habits and can develop into these psychological conditions. (Hahn, E.

2022)

The presence of social media and the rise of influencer culture are undeniable. For

people all over the world, especially women, there have always been impossible

standards of beauty. But these beauty standards are under increasing pressure due to the

rise of influencers and, of course, their impact on social media platforms. Having the

perfect body is not a new trend, but the type of body that women want today is, the

weight of trying to conform to what society considers beautiful can be completely soul-

crushing. It can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, body

dysmorphia, and eating disorders. It also leads people, especially young women, to look
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for other ways to achieve the "perfect" image through surgery. (The Hook article, 2021,

“The Ugly side of Beauty Standards”)

Mental disorders such as anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder, one of the

popular illnesses one gets when practicing unhealthy eating habits, are characterized by

abnormal eating habits such as extreme dietary restraint or uncontrollable eating,

compensatory behaviors, and overvalued ideas about weight and shape the fear of body

weight increase that severely affect physical as well as mental health. There is evidence

that having these eating disorders leads to serious medical complications as well as a

psychosocial burden. Thus, the findings from this study suggest that body dissatisfaction

and potentially increased future ED prevalence among mostly young females may

increase in limited-resource settings as exposure to media and higher-resource cultures

increases. (Valentin Terhoeven and Christoph Nikendei, 2019).

These dangers of such influences within communities do not fit the standard. It is

an issue of identity and belonging for many. The influence of the West has created

unachievable standards many of which, through no fault of our own, cannot meet.

Additionally, colonialism displaced many people creating a diaspora of people in a

constant debate of where they truly belong. (Sajeea Bhatti, 2021)

People have to remember that it doesn't matter if they don't meet the beauty standards.

Sadly, standards are changing all the time in the white female realm, but that shouldn't

change the way we see ourselves. People’s value is essentially irrelevant to our

appearance, even if we try to convince ourselves that we are. (Daley, A. 2022)


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Review of Related Studies

Studies (Cash T.F) showed how perceived body Image affects the eating habits of

young adolescents. Based on the research paper, the perceived body image is when an

individual’s body image is seen to be “slim” or “thin". To add to that, it demonstrates

how the western media and body dissatisfaction correlate with each other, an examination

of self-perception among women on Facebook revealed that women and men tend to

compare themselves to photographs of Other People’s Body. The survey conducted in

this study claims that Israeli adolescents are more exposed to media than most of their

peers in other countries. In addition to that. family and the media, one’s peer group and

friends, strongly influence the process of socialization and become ‘significant others.

Nowadays, social comparisons are related to the development of body dissatisfaction

among children, adolescents, and adults.

Similarly, the research (Kaziga R, Muchunguzi C, Achen D, Kools S.) have conducted

narrative interviews with 30 young women (16–24) who were recruited from a variety of

educational institutions and the Ankole community in southwest Uganda. This study,

which was conducted in the Ankole Region of Uganda, looked at older adolescent
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Banyan Kole girls' reactions to sociocultural constructs of body image. This research

demonstrated how pictures provided to teenagers and young women by societal structures

during their developmental stage cause them to become more conscious of their bodies.

These images could influence the young to engage in unhealthy habits including binge

eating, starvation, and skin bleaching.

Comparably, A Dissertation (Tadena, Kang, Kim, 2020) “The Influence of Social

Media Affinity on Eating Attitudes and Body Dissatisfaction in Philippine Adolescents”

have conducted a survey using a scale developed evaluation by Garner, Olmsted, Bohr,

and Garfinkel, the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) to 114 participants of Grade 7-10 Junior

High school students in Cavite, Philippines, with 59 males and 54 females. The study

examined the impacts of social media affinity towards the eating habits and body

dissatisfaction of Filipino adolescents. It has concluded that affinity towards social media

was correlated to body dissatisfaction and negative eating habits. It has been revealed that

exposure to social media, in which one perceives the perfect body image as “slim”, is a

developmental factor that contributes to an individual’s drive for weight loss. Moreover,

the study suggests that adolescents who are more frequently exposed to social media,

compared to others, are likely to develop bad eating behaviors which leads to eating

disorders. The pressure put onto by society invokes Teens to pursue unhealthy weight-

control attitudes or the other way around.

In the contrary, (Bibiloni, Pich, Pons, and A Turl, 2013), assessed the association

between body self-perception and eating patterns among adolescents. The results in these

findings determined that meal patterns and food consumption were correlated with the

body dissatisfaction of the overweight adolescent participants. Majority, approximately


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61.9% of 657 participants of the overweight (<30 Body Mass Index) females were

reported to desire for a slimmer appearance. They tend to be more conscious about their

body image, acute to puberty. However, it is an important attribute towards the

intervention of subjective health improvement of adolescents. It has been revealed that a

certain level of body dissatisfaction may benefit young individuals with average or

above-average weight, since it could drive them to exhibit measures such as switching to

a healthier diet and exercising regularly.

CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This research is of the evaluation kind and employs the quantitative approach.

Research of the evaluation kind is described as one that explores and evaluates the

influence and relevance of a plan, strategy, or program.

The researchers choose this design because it is appropriate for the investigation,

which seeks to identify the influence of western beauty standards in the eating habits of

13- to 17-year-old Filipino teens in UPHSD-Las Piñas Campus. The researchers will be

able to explain the proportion of 13–17-year-old Filipino teenagers who agree and

disagree with the effect of western beauty standards on eating habits, as well as their

perceptions of the benefits and drawbacks, using this approach. The western beauty

standard is the independent variable in this study, while the dependent variable is the

eating habits of 13–17-year-old Filipino teens in UPHSD-Las Pinas Campus.


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Locale of the Study

The study will be conducted at the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA,

along Alabang Zapote Road, Las Piñas City, 1740 Metro Manila. The High school

students, including both the Senior High School and Junior Business High School

Department of The University of Perpetual Help System Dalta will be the target

respondents to identify the influence of Western Beauty Standards in the eating habits of

young adolescents such as their selves. Their response will be a great help not only for

the University itself but also the City’s Health department to understand one of the major

factors that influence the eating behaviors of teens.

Participants and Sampling Technique

The researchers used the following criteria to select study participants for the

study called “THE INFLUENCE OF WESTERN MEDIA TO THE PERSPECTIVE ON

BEAUTY STANDARDS OF 13–17-YEAR-OLD TEENS IN UPHSD-JBHS”

1. The participant should be enrolled in the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta-Las Pinas

Campus.

2. The participants must be between the ages of 13 to 17 years old.

3. The participant must be in Grade 7, 8, 9, or 10

The Stratified Sampling method shall be used with each Grade level as the corresponding

stratas. The researchers will be randomly selecting the students of each cluster to answer the

questions for the research. The average number of JBHS with an age-range of 13-17 years old is

701.
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n=N
1+(N)(e) ²

n= 701
1+(701) (0.08) ²

n = 701
5.49

n= 127.77 or 128

The researchers calculated the appropriate sample size for this study using Slovin's formula,

with 8%, or 0.08, as its error tolerance. The sample size obtained by the researchers was 127.77,

or 128 in rounded terms. This indicates that there should be 128 respondents for the data

gathering of this research.

BY GRADE LEVEL FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

GRADE 7 143 20.40%

GRADE 8 160 22.82%

GRADE 9 192 27.39%

GRADE 10 210 29.96%

TOTAL 701 100%

TABLE 1 Sample of the total population of grade levels

Based on Table 1, with a total population size of 701, 143 students are from Grade 7, 160

students from Grade 8, 192 students from Grade 9, 210 students from Grade 10. The students

from grade 7 garnered a percentage of 20.40%, the grade 8 got 22.82%, the grade 9 students with

27.39%, the grade 10 students with 29.96%.

BY GRADE LEVEL FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE


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GRADE 7 26 20.40%

GRADE 8 29 22.82%

GRADE 9 35 27.39%

GRADE 10 38 29.96%

TOTAL 128 100%

TABLE 2 Sample of the total population of grade levels based on the sample size

From the table provided in Table 2, with a sample size of 128 The total number of

students from grade 7 is 26, 29 students from Grade 8, 35 students from Grade 9, 38 students

from Grade 10. The students from grade 7 garnered a percentage of 20.40%, the grade 8 got

22.82%, the grade 9 students with 27.39%, the grade 10 students with 29.96%with a total of

100%.

Research instrument

The instrument used was a survey made by the researchers in Google Forms to

gather and interpret the answers of the students. The researchers see Google Forms as the

most convenient way to conduct a survey on the respondents, and that the use of Google

Forms is entirely free. This instrument is authorized to collect the respondent’s valid

responses.

The survey was drafted based on the three (3) part topics of the Statement of the

Problem, which was made and published by the researchers with references from trusted
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citations. Whereas the Junior High School and Senior High School students from

UPHSD-Las Piñas Campus will be given a survey via Google Forms, which they will be

able to answer the questions freely using the link given to them. From this survey, the

JHS and SHS students will be able to share their perspectives on this study. Furthermore,

the respondents are asked to answer using a 4-point Likert scale.

I. Profile of the Respondent:

1. Name: _______________

2. Sex:

A. Male

B. Female

3. Age:

A. 13

B. 14

C. 15

D. 16

E. 17

II. Check the corresponding box that will fit your answer:

(SA – Strongly Agree, A – Agree, D – Disagree, SD – Strongly Disagree)

A. Do Western beauty standards have influenced the respondents? In terms of:

INTEREST SA A D SD

1. Western beauty standards have


influenced my body image and self-
esteem at a young age.
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2. The Western beauty standards have


influenced my interests, hobbies,
and career aspirations.
3. I think social media and peer
pressure have played in shaping my
life through the perceptions of
beauty.
4. I have pursued a particular interest
or activity because it was associated
with Western beauty standards.
5. I believe Western beauty standards
have influenced societal standards
for mostly women's interests and
hobbies.

DAILY HABITS

1. My daily habits are shaped by the


influence of Western Beauty and its
media, as they impact the person I
am striving to become.
2. I spend too much time on social
media looking at certain individuals
who have the Western beauty
standards and often compare myself
to these types of people.
3. I often watch and look at Western
Beauty content (eg. Beauty vlogs
and Fashion Pinterest)
4. I often feel pressure to achieve
Western beauty standards in my
daily life.
5. I may have noticed any changes in
my daily habits as a result of
increased awareness and critique of
Western beauty standards.
LIFESTYLE

1. Western beauty standards have


influenced my lifestyle choices,
such as clothing style, hair, and
behavior.
2. I balance my personal preferences
with societal expectations of beauty
in my lifestyle.
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3. I adhere to certain beauty standards


because it is necessary for my self-
acceptance and self-esteem. (eg.
Fashion style and morning routine)
4. The negative effects of Western
Beauty standards, such as engaging
in unhealthy exercise habits,
avoiding social interactions, and
experiencing anxiety have been
incorporated in my lifestyle.
5. The influence of Western beauty
standards has affected the way I
prioritize my wellness in my daily
life.
EATING BEHAVIORS

1. I engage in practices associated with


Western beauty standards, such as
avoiding certain foods.
2. Negative physical or psychological
consequences may have happened, I
once strived to meet Western beauty
standards through their eating habit
experience.
3. I once consumed foods or drinks
that were marketed as "low-fat,"
"sugar-free," or "diet" in an effort to
conform to Western beauty
standards rather than doing physical
exercises.
4. I’ve had specific foods that I
associated with the pursuit of
Western beauty ideals.
5. I have somewhat altered my diet to
achieve the Western beauty ideals.

B. What are the factors that influence the respondent's perspective of beauty?

PEERS SA A D SD

1. Adolescents' peers influence their


perception of physical attractiveness
and beauty standards.
2. Peer groups enforce certain beauty
ideals and create pressure to these
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standards.
3. Social acceptance and popularity within
peer groups influences the adolescent's
perception of beauty.
4. Adolescents compare themselves to
their peers in terms of physical
appearance and this impacts on their
self-esteem and body image.
5. Peer relationships play a role in shaping
an adolescent's beliefs about the
importance of physical appearance.
SOCIETY

1. Society’s standard of beauty impacts an


adolescent's perception of their own
appearance.
2. The media’s portrayal of beauty in the
community affects an adolescent’s self-
esteem and confidence.
3. The toxic attitudes prevalent in society
can influence myself in understanding
of what is considered beautiful.
4. Cultural norms within a community
influence an adolescent's perspective on
beauty standards at a young age.
5. An exposure to diverse communities
and perspectives shapes an adolescent's
understanding of beauty and its
significance.
SOCIAL MEDIA

1. Social media affects an adolescent's


perception of beauty and body image
once they’re exposed in the media.
2. The social media platforms actively
promote specific beauty ideals and exert
through ads/posts that pressure me to
conform to these standards.
3. Filters and editing tools contribute to an
unrealistic standard of beauty that can
negatively impact an adolescent's self-
esteem.
4. The constant exposure to images of
"perfect" bodies and faces on social
media affects an adolescent's perception
of their own appearance.
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5. Influencers and celebrities build my


beliefs about beauty through their
physical appearance and the portrayal
of beauty standards they show.
FAMILY

1. An adolescent's family's beauty


standards and beliefs about physical
appearance influence their own
perspective on beauty.
2. My parents or siblings cause my own
physical insecurities.
3. The family environment, including the
presence or absence of criticism or
praise related to physical appearance,
affects an adolescent's perspective on
beauty.
4. Generational differences in beliefs
about beauty within a family impact an
adolescent's understanding of beauty
standards.
5. Family values and attitudes towards
physical appearance play in shaping an
adolescent's beliefs about the
importance of beauty and their
insecurity.

Data Gathering Procedure

The research survey will be conducted at the University of Perpetual Help System

Dalta-Las Piñas Junior Business High School and Senior High School Campus, after

which the researchers will develop an online survey through Google Forms regarding

Western beauty standards and eating habits, which will be distributed within the JHS and

SHS students of the UPHSD-Las Piñas Campus.

These surveys are about the respondents’ acknowledgement of how Western

beauty standards can impact the eating habits of 13 to 17-year-old Filipino teens. The

respondents were selected by the researchers according to their age. The survey will
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include three (3) part questions about the respondent's profile, their perspective on

Western beauty standards, and their dietary habits, which they will answer using a 4-

point Likert scale.

Statistical Treatment of Data

When dealing with large data, statistics in research assist in data analysis. This

helps researchers to draw an effective conclusion from their experiment and observations.

Concluding the study manually or from visual observation may give erroneous results;

therefore, thorough statistical analysis will take into consideration all the other statistical

measures and variance in the sample to provide a detailed interpretation of the data

(Shrutika Sirisilla, 2022).

A. 1.1 Do Western beauty standards influence the respondents? In terms of

interest?

Statement 1 F x Fx

Strongly Agree 60 4 240

Agree 4 3 12

Disagree 1 2 2

Strongly Disagree 0 1 0

65 1254

Table 3. Sample Table of Frequency and Value for Statement 1


27

The researchers shall use frequency counts weighted mean as its statistical method

in interpreting the data gathered. The weighted mean is measured in order to assess the

collective results of each respondent in every statement. The formula is as follows:

𝛴 𝑥̅= 𝛴 𝑓𝑥

𝛴𝑓

In which:

𝑥̅ = mean

𝑓𝑥 = total number of respondents

𝑓 = total frequency time value

The researchers opted for 4.0 as the highest degree and 1.0 as the lowest degree to

determine the average response for each statement. The mean for every question shall be

interpreted using:

1.00-1.80 Strongly Disagree

1.81-2.60 Disagree

2.61-3.49 Agree

3.41-4.00 Strongly Agree

Table 4. Interpretation for the mean

According to the data provided in Table 1, the total number of participants are 65.

The researchers then multiplied each frequency of every option to its numerical

equivalent, Strongly Agree garnered 60, Agree has 4, Disagree has 2, while Strongly

Disagree has 0.
28

In order to determine the collective responses according to the table, the sum of

frequency times the value of all the options must be calculated. When the sum is

identified, it will later on be divided into the number of participants in the data gathering.

𝑥̅ = 𝛴 𝑓𝑥

𝛴𝑓

𝑥̅ = 254

65

𝑥̅ = 3.90

Based on the interpretation table provided by the researchers, 3.90 is equivalent to

Strongly Agree. In conclusion, the collective answer among the population to the first

statement is Agree.
29

CHAPTER IV

PRESENTATION AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

Presentation of Data: Demographics


30

Chart 1. Distribution of Respondents According to Age

The data shown in the chart above presents the age of the students. The number of

13 years old pupils who responded to the survey is 17.8%, 20% 14 years old, 25.6% 15

years old, and 27.8% 16 years old. 8.9% of the respondents are 17 years old respondents

with a total of 90 respondents.

Chart 2. Distribution of Respondents According to Grade Level

The data shown in the chart above presents the grade level of the students. The

number of grade 7 pupils who responded to the survey is 8.9%, with 21.1% in Grade 8,

and 27.8% in Grade 9. 27% of the respondents may be less than in Grade 10. 42.2% of

the respondents with a total of 90 respondents.


31

Chart 3. Distribution of Respondents According to Grade Level

Chart 3 shows the percentage of the male and female respondents. The majority of the

students who answered were female, with 55.6% of the results equalling 90 responses.

On the other hand, less than half of the total population is male, gathering 38.9% of the

results.

Presentation of Data: Responses

A. Do Western Beauty Standards influence the respondents? In terms of:

I. Interest

The Western beauty standards F X FX Mean Verbal Interpretation

have influenced my body image

and self-esteem at a young age.

Strongly Agree 22 4 88

Agree 49 3 147

Disagree 13 2 26

Strongly Disagree 6 1 6

90 128 2.96 Agree

Table No. 1 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 1


32

As shown in Table 1, there are 49 respondents who agree with the statement "The

Western beauty standards have influenced my body image and self-esteem at a young

age.” There are 13 respondents who disagree and 6 respondents who strongly disagree

with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.96, it shows that collectively, the

respondents agree that Western beauty standards have influenced their body image and

self-esteem at a young age.

The Western beauty standards F X FX Mean Verbal

have influenced my interests, interpretation

hobbies, and career aspirations.

Strongly Agree 15 4 60

Agree 46 3 138

Disagree 13 2 46

Strongly Disagree 6 1 6

90 230 2.77

Table No. 2 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 2

As shown in Table 2, there are 46 respondents who agree with the statement "The

Western beauty standards have influenced my interests, hobbies, and career aspirations.”

There are 23 respondents who disagree and 15 respondents who strongly disagree with

the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.77, it shows that collectively, the
33

respondents agree that western beauty standards have influenced their interests, hobbies,

and career aspirations.

I think social media and peer F X FX Mean Verbal

pressure have played in shaping interpretation

my life through the perceptions

of beauty.

Strongly Agree 33 4 132

Agree 42 3 126

Disagree 11 2 22

Strongly Disagree 4 1 4

90 284 3.15

Table No. 3 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 3

As shown in Table 3, there are 42 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

think social media and peer pressure have played in shaping my life through the

perceptions of beauty." There are 11 respondents who disagree and 4 respondents who

strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 3.15, it shows that

collectively, the respondents agree that they think social media and peer pressure have

played a role in shaping their perceptions of beauty.

I have pursued a particular F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation


34

interest or activity because it was

associated with Western beauty

standards.

Strongly Agree 11 4 44

Agree 38 3 114

Disagree 34 2 68

Strongly Disagree 7 1 7

90 165 2.58 Agree

Table No. 4 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 4

As shown in Table 4, there are 38 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

have pursued a particular interest or activity because it was associated with Western

beauty standards." There are 34 respondents who disagree and 11 respondents who

strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.58, it shows that

collectively, the respondents disagree that they have.

I believe Western beauty F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

standards have influence societal

standards for mostly women's

interests and hobbies.

Strongly Agree 31 4 124

Agree 53 3 159

Disagree 3 2 6
35

Strongly Disagree 3 1 3

90 214 3.24 Strongly Agree

Table No. 5 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 5

As shown in Table 5, there are 53 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

believe Western beauty standards have influence societal standards for mostly women's

interests and hobbies." There are 3 respondents who disagree and 3 respondents who

strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 3.24, it shows that

collectively, the respondents agree that they believe western beauty standards have

influenced societal standards for mostly women’s interests and hobbies.

II. Daily Habits

My daily habits are shaped by the F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

influence of Western Beauty and

its media, as they impact the

person I am striving to become.

Strongly Agree 12 4 48

Agree 33 3 99

Disagree 38 2 76

Strongly Disagree 7 1 7

90 165 2.55 Disagree

Table No. 6 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 6


36

As shown in Table 6, there are 33 respondents who agree with the statement, "My

daily habits are shaped by the influence of Western beauty and its media, as they impact

the person I am striving to become." There are 38 respondents who disagree and 12

respondents who strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is

2.55, it shows that collectively, the respondents disagree that their daily habits are shaped

by the influence of Western beauty and its media, as they impact the person they are

striving to become.

I spend too time on social media F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

looking at certain individuals

whom have the Western beauty

standards and often compare

myself to these types of people.

Strongly Agree 20 4 89

Agree 30 3 90

Disagree 28 2 56

Strongly Disagree 12 1 12

90 167 2.64 Agree

Table No. 7 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 7

As shown in Table 7, there are 30 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

spend too much time on social media looking at certain individuals whom have the

Western beauty standards and often compare myself to these types of people." There are

28 respondents who disagree and 20 respondents who strongly disagree with the
37

statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.64, collectively, the respondents disagree

that they spend too much time on social media looking at certain individuals who have

Western beauty standards and often compare themselves to these types of people.

I often watch and look at Western F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

Beauty content (eg. Beauty vlogs

and Fashion Pinterest)

Strongly Agree 14 4 56

Agree 32 3 96

Disagree 30 2 60

Strongly Disagree 14 1 14

90 158 2.51 Agree

Table No. 8 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 8

As shown in Table 8, there are 32 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

often watch and look at Western beauty content (e.g., beauty vlogs and fashion

Pinterest)." There are 30 respondents who disagree and 14 respondents who strongly

disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.51, collectively, the

respondents disagree that they often watch and look at Western beauty content (e.g.,

beauty vlogs and fashion Pinterest).

I often feel pressure to achieve the F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation


38

Western beauty standards in my

daily life.

Strongly Agree 16 4 64

Agree 38 3 114

Disagree 24 2 48

Strongly Disagree 12 1 12

90 168 2.64 Agree

Table No. 9 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 9

As shown in Table 9, there are 38 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

often feel pressure to achieve Western beauty standards in my daily life." There are 24

respondents who disagree and 16 respondents who strongly disagree with the statement.

Since the total weighted mean is 2.64, collectively, the respondents agree that they often

feel pressure to achieve Western beauty standards in their daily lives.

I may have noticed any changes in F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

my daily habits as a result of

increased awareness and critique of

Western beauty standards.

Strongly Agree 10 4 49

Agree 44 3 132

Disagree 25 2 50
39

Strongly Disagree 10 1 40

90 165 2.58 Agree

Table No. 10 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 10

As shown in Table 10, there are 44 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

may have noticed any changes in my daily habits as a result of increased awareness and

critique of Western beauty standards." There are 25 respondents who disagree and 10

respondents who strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is

2.58, collectively, the respondents agree that they may have noticed any changes in their

daily habits as a result of increased awareness and critique of Western beauty standards.

III. Lifestyle

Western beauty standards have F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

influenced my lifestyle choices,

such as clothing style, hair, and

behavior.

Strongly Agree 21 4 84

Agree 49 3 147

Disagree 13 2 26

Strongly Disagree 7 1 7

90 188 2.93 Agree

Table No. 11 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 11


40

As shown in Table 11, there are 49 respondents who agree with the statement,

"Western beauty standards have influenced my lifestyle choices, such as clothing style,

hair, and behavior." There are 13 respondents who disagree and 7 respondents who

strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.93, collectively,

the respondents agree that Western beauty standards have influenced their lifestyle

choices, such as clothing style, hair, and behavior.

I balance my personal preferences F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

with societal expectations of beauty

in my lifestyle.

Strongly Agree 17 4 68

Agree 521 3 156

Disagree 18 2 36

Strongly Disagree 3 1 3

90 185 2.92 Agree

Table No. 12 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 12

As shown in Table 12, there are 52 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

balance my personal preferences with societal expectations of beauty in my lifestyle."

There are 18 respondents who disagree and 3 respondents who strongly disagree with the

statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.92, collectively, the respondents agree that

they balance personal preferences with societal expectations of beauty in lifestyle.


41

I adhere to certain beauty standards F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

because it is necessary for my self-

acceptance and self-esteem. (eg.

Fashion style and morning routine)

Strongly Agree 13 4 52

Agree 55 3 220

Disagree 15 2 30

Strongly Disagree 7 1 7

99 209 3.43 Agree

Table No. 13 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 13

As shown in Table 13, there are 55 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

adhere to certain beauty standards because it is necessary for my self-acceptance and self-

esteem (e.g., fashion style and morning routine)." There are 15 respondents who disagree

and 7 respondents who strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted

mean is 3.43, collectively, the respondents agree that they adhere to certain beauty

standards because it is necessary for self-acceptance and self-esteem. (e.g., fashion style

and morning routine)

The negative effects of Western F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

Beauty standards, such as engaging

in unhealthy exercise habits,


42

avoiding social interactions, and

experiencing anxiety has been

incorporated in my lifestyle.

Strongly Agree 24 4 96

Agree 28 3 84

Disagree 26 2 52

Strongly Disagree 12 1 12

90 170 2.71 Agree

Table No. 14 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 14

As shown in Table 14, there are 28 respondents who agree with the statement,

"The negative effects of Western beauty standards, such as engaging in unhealthy

exercise habits, avoiding social interactions, and experiencing anxiety, have been

incorporated in my lifestyle." There are 26 respondents who disagree and 12 respondents

who strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.71, it shows

collectively among the respondents that the negative effects of Western beauty standards,

such as engaging in unhealthy exercise habits, avoiding social interactions, and

experiencing anxiety, have become part of their lifestyle.

The influence of Western beauty F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

standards has affected the way I

prioritize my wellness in my daily

life.

Strongly Agree 14 4 56
43

Agree 401 3 120

Disagree 28 2 56

Strongly Disagree 8 1 8

90 209 2.64 Agree

Table No. 15 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 15

As shown in Table 15, there are 40 respondents who agree with the statement,

"The influence of Western beauty standards has affected the way I prioritize my wellness

in my daily life." There are 28 who disagree and 8 respondents who strongly disagree

with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.64, collectively, the respondents

agree that the influence of Western beauty standards has affected the way they prioritize

wellness in their daily lives.

IV. Eating Habits

I engage in practices associated F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

with Western beauty standards,

such as avoiding certain foods.

Strongly Agree 17 4 17

Agree 27 3 81

Disagree 37 2 74

Strongly Disagree 9 1 36

90 145 2.12 Agree

Table No. 16 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 16


44

As shown in Table 16, there are 27 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

engage in practices associated with Western beauty standards, such as avoiding certain

foods." There are 37 respondents who disagree and 9 respondents who strongly disagree

with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.12, it shows that collectively, the

respondents disagree that they engage in practices associated with Western beauty

standards, such as avoiding certain foods.

Negative physical or psychological F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

consequences may have happen, I

once strived to meet Western

beauty standards through their

eating habit experience.

Strongly Agree 13 4 52

Agree 28 3 84

Disagree 37 2 74

Strongly Disagree 12 1 12

99 154 2.46 Disagree

Table No. 17 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 17

As shown in Table 17, there are 28 respondents who agree with the statement,

"Negative physical or psychological consequences may have happen, I once strived to

meet Western beauty standards through their eating habit experience." There are 37
45

respondents who disagree and 12 respondents who strongly disagree with the statement.

Since the total weighted mean is 2.46, it shows that collectively, the respondents disagree

that negative physical or psychological consequences may have happened once they

strived to meet Western beauty standards through their eating habits.

I once consumed foods or drinks F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

that are marketed as "low-fat,"

"sugar-free," or "diet" in an effort

to conform to Western beauty

standards rather than doing

physical exercises.

Strongly Agree 8 4 32

Agree 28 3 84

Disagree 36 2 72

Strongly Disagree 18 1 18

99 145 2.28 Disagree

Table No. 18 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 18

As shown in Table 18, there are 28 respondents who agree with the statement, "I

once consumed foods or drinks that are marketed as "low-fat," "sugar-free," or "diet" in

an effort to conform to Western beauty standards rather than doing physical exercises."

There are 36 respondents who disagree and 18 respondents who strongly disagree with
46

the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.28, it shows that collectively, the

respondents disagree that they once consumed foods or drinks that are marketed as "low-

fat," "sugar-free," or "diet" in an effort to conform to Western beauty standards rather

than doing physical exercises.

I’ve had specific foods that I F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

associated with the pursuit of

Western beauty ideals.

Strongly Agree 11 4 44

Agree 34 3 102

Disagree 32 2 64

Strongly Disagree 13 1 13

99 157 2.47 Agree

Table No. 19 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 19

As shown in Table 19, there are 34 respondents who agree with the statement,

"I’ve had specific foods that I associated with the pursuit of Western beauty ideals."

There are 32 respondents who disagree and 13 respondents who strongly disagree with

the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.47, it shows that collectively, the

respondents agree that they had specific foods that were associated with the pursuit of

Western beauty ideals.


47

I have somewhat altered my diet to F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

achieve the Western beauty ideals.

Strongly Agree 10 4 40

Agree 39 3 117

Disagree 25 2 50

Strongly Disagree 16 1 16

90 155 2.47 Agree

Table No. 20 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 20

As shown in Table 20, there are 39 respondents who agree with the statement, "I have

somewhat altered my diet to achieve Western beauty ideals." There are 25 respondents

who disagree and 16 respondents who strongly disagree with the statement. Since the

total weighted mean is 2.47, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree that they

have somewhat altered my diet to achieve Western beauty ideals.

B. What are the factors that influence the respondent’s perspective of beauty?

In terms of:

I. Peers

Adolescents' peers influence their F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

perception of physical

attractiveness and beauty standards.

Strongly Agree 21 4 84
48

Agree 61 3 183

Disagree 7 2 14

Strongly Disagree 1 1 1

90 203 3.06 Agree

Table No. 21 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 21

As shown in Table 21, there are 21 respondents who strongly agree with the

statement, "Adolescents' peers influence their perception of physical attractiveness and

beauty standards." There are 7 respondents who disagree and 1 respondent who strongly

disagrees with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 3.06, collectively, the

respondents agree that adolescents' peers influenced their perception of physical

attractiveness and beauty standards.

Peer groups enforce certain beauty F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

ideals and create pressure to these

standards.

Strongly Agree 22 4 88

Agree 50 3 150

Disagree 15 2 30

Strongly Disagree 3 1 3

99 199 3.01 Agree

Table No. 22 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 22


49

As shown in Table 22, there are 50 respondents who agree with the statement,

"Peer groups enforce certain beauty ideals and create pressure to these standards." There

are 15 respondents who disagree and 3 respondents who strongly disagree with the

statement. Since the total weighted mean is 3.01, collectively, the respondents agree that

peer groups enforce certain beauty ideals and create pressure to meet these standards.

Social acceptance and popularity F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

within peer groups influences the

adolescent's perception of beauty.

Strongly Agree 32 4 128

Agree 46 3 138

Disagree 11 2 22

Strongly Disagree 1 1 1

90 207 3.21 Agree

Table No. 23 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 23

As shown in Table 23, there are 46 respondents who agree with the statement

"Social acceptance and popularity within peer groups influences the adolescent's

perception of beauty," as indicated in the table. There are 11 respondents who disagree

and 1 respondent who strongly agrees with the statement. Since the total weighted mean

is 3.21, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree that social acceptance and

popularity within peer groups influence the adolescent's perception of beauty.


50

Adolescents compare themselves to F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

their peers in terms of physical

appearance and impacts this on

their self-esteem and body image.

Strongly Agree 29 4 116

Agree 52 3 156

Disagree 8 2 16

Strongly Disagree 1 1 1

90 213 3.21 Agree

Table No. 24 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 24

As shown in Table 24, there are 52 respondents who agree with the statement

"Adolescents compare themselves to their peers in terms of physical appearance, and

impacts this on their self-esteem and body image," as indicated in the table. There are 8

respondents who disagree and 1 respondent who strongly agrees with the statement.

Since the total weighted mean is 3.21, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree

that adolescents compare themselves to their peers in terms of physical appearance,

which impacts their self-esteem and body image.

Peer relationships play a role in F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

shaping an adolescent’s beliefs


51

about the importance of physical

appearance.

Strongly Agree 21 4 84

Agree 57 3 171

Disagree 10 2 10

Strongly Disagree 2 1 2

90 199 2.96 Agree

Table No. 25 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 25

As shown in Table 25, there are 57 respondents who agree with the statement

"Peer relationships play a role in shaping an adolescent’s beliefs about the importance of

physical appearance," as indicated in the table. There are 10 respondents who disagree

and 2 respondents who strongly agree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean

is 2.96, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree that peer relationships play a role

in shaping an adolescent’s beliefs about the importance of physical appearance.

II. Social Media

Social media affect an adolescent’s F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

perception of beauty and body

image once they’re exposed in the

media.
52

Strongly Agree 37 4 148

Agree 36 3 138

Disagree 4 2 8

Strongly Disagree 3 1 3

90 221 3.3 Strongly Agree

Table No. 26 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 26

As shown in Table 26, there are 46 respondents who agree with the statement

"Social media affect an adolescent’s perception of beauty and body image once they’re

exposed to the media," as indicated in the table. There are 4 respondents who disagree

and 3 respondents who strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted

mean is 3.3, it shows that collectively, the respondents strongly agree that the social

media affect an adolescent’s perception of beauty and body image once they’re exposed

to the media.

The social media platforms actively F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

promote specific beauty ideals and

exert through ads/posts that

pressure myself to conform to these

standards.

Strongly Agree 26 4 78

Agree 44 3 132
53

Disagree 15 2 30

Strongly Disagree 5 1 5

90 203 2.72 Agree

Table No. 27 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 27

As shown in Table 27, there are 44 respondents who agree with the statement

"The social media platforms actively promote specific beauty ideals and exert through

ads/posts that pressure myself to conform to these standards," as indicated in the table.

There are 15 respondents who disagree and 5 respondents who strongly agree with the

statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.27, it shows that collectively, the

respondents agree that the social media platforms actively promote specific beauty ideals

and exert pressure through ads and posts that I conform to these standards.

Filters and editing tools contribute F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

to an unrealistic standard of beauty

that can negatively impact an

adolescent’s self-esteem.

Strongly Agree 42 4 168

Agree 37 3 111

Disagree 8 2 8

Strongly Disagree 3 1 3
54

90 241 3.22 Strongly Agree

Table No. 28 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 28

As shown in Table 28, there are 42 respondents who agree with the statement

"Filters and editing tools contribute to an unrealistic standard of beauty that can

negatively impact an adolescent’s self-esteem," as indicated in the table. There are 8

respondents who disagree and 3 respondents who strongly agree with the statement.

Since the total weighted mean is 3.22, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree

that the filters and editing tools contribute to an unrealistic standard of beauty that can

negatively impact an adolescent’s self-esteem.

The constant exposure to images of F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

“perfect” bodies and faces on social

media affect an adolescent’s

perception of their own appearance.

Strongly Agree 45 4 180

Agree 35 3 105

Disagree 8 2 16

Strongly Disagree 2 1 2

90 219 3.36 Strongly Agree

Table No. 29 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 29


55

As shown in Table 29, there are 35 respondents who agree with the statement

"The constant exposure to images of "perfect" bodies and faces on social media affects an

adolescent’s perception of their own appearance," as indicated in the table. There are 8

respondents who disagree and 2 respondents who strongly agree with the statement.

Since the total weighted mean is 3.36, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree

that the constant exposure to images of "perfect" bodies and faces on social media affects

an adolescent’s perception of their own appearance.

Influencers and celebrities build my F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

beliefs about beauty through their

physical appearance and the

portrayal of beauty standards they

show.

Strongly Agree 30 4 120

Agree 38 3 114

Disagree 16 2 32

Strongly Disagree 6 1 6

90 221 3.02 Agree

Table No. 30 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 30

As shown in Table 30, there are 38 respondents who agree with the statement

"Influencers and celebrities build my beliefs about beauty through their physical

appearance and the portrayal of beauty standards they show," as indicated in the table.
56

There are 16 respondents who disagree and 6 respondents who strongly agree with the

statement. Since the total weighted mean is 3.02, it shows that collectively, the

respondents agree that influencers and celebrities build my beliefs about beauty through

their physical appearance and the portrayal of beauty standards they show.

III. Family

An adolescent’s family’s beauty F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

standards and beliefs about

physical appearance influence their

own perspective on beauty.

Strongly Agree 27 4 108

Agree 51 3 153

Disagree 10 2 20

Strongly Disagree 2 1 2

90 202 3.14 Agree

Table No. 31 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 31

As shown in Table 31, there are 51 respondents who agree with the statement "An

adolescent’s family’s beauty standards and beliefs about physical appearance influence

their own perspective on beauty," as indicated in the table. There are 10 respondents who

disagree and 2 respondents who strongly agree with the statement. Since the total

weighted mean is 3.14, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree that an
57

adolescent’s family’s beauty standards and beliefs about physical appearance influence

their own perspective on beauty.

My parents of siblings causes my F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

own physical insecurities.

Strongly Agree 26 4 104

Agree 31 3 93

Disagree 20 2 40

Strongly Disagree 13 1 13

90 184 2.77 Agree

Table No. 32 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 32

As shown in Table 32, there are 31 respondents who agree with the statement

"My parents or siblings causes my own physical insecurities," as indicated in the table.

There are 20 respondents who disagree and 13 respondents who strongly agree with the

statement. Since the total weighted mean is 2.77, it shows that collectively, the

respondents agree that their parents or siblings causes their own physical insecurities.

The family environment, including F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

the presence or absence of criticism

or praise related to physical

appearance, affect an adolescent’s


58

perspective on beauty.

Strongly Agree 27 4 108

Agree 52 3 153

Disagree 11 2 22

Strongly Disagree 1 1 1

90 175 3.15 Agree

Table No. 33 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 33

As shown in Table 33, there are 51 respondents who agree with the statement

"The family environment, including the presence or absence of criticism or praise related

to physical appearance, affects an adolescent’s perspective on beauty," as indicated in the

table. There are 11 respondents who disagree and 1 respondent who strongly agrees with

the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 3.15, it shows that collectively, the

respondents agree that the family environment, including the presence or absence of

criticism or praise related to physical appearance, affects an adolescent’s perspective on

beauty.

Generational differences in beliefs F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

about beauty within a family’s

impact an adolescent's

understanding of beauty standards.

Strongly Agree 30 4 120


59

Agree 50 3 150

Disagree 2 2 2

Strongly Disagree 2 1 2

90 206 3.2 Agree

Table No. 34 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 34

As shown in Table 34, there are 37 Respondents who Agrees with the statement

“Generational differences in beliefs about beauty within a family’s impact an adolescent's

understanding of beauty standards.” There are 6 who Disagree and 2 who Strongly

Disagrees with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is 3.15, shows collectively,

the respondents Agrees that Generational differences in beliefs about beauty within a

family’s impact an adolescent's understanding of beauty standards.

Family values and attitudes towards F X FX Mean Verbal interpretation

physical appearance play in shaping

an adolescent's beliefs about the

importance of beauty and their

insecurity.

Strongly Agree 34 4 136

Agree 48 3 144

Disagree 6 2 12

Strongly Disagree 2 1 2

90 199 3.26 Agree


60

Table No. 35 Frequency of Responses and Mean for Statement 35

As shown in Table 35, there are 48 respondents who agree with the statement, "Family

values and attitudes towards physical appearance play in shaping an adolescent's beliefs

about the importance of beauty and their insecurity." There are 6 respondents who

disagree and 2 who strongly disagree with the statement. Since the total weighted mean is

3.26, it shows that collectively, the respondents agree that family values and attitudes

towards physical appearance play a role in shaping an adolescent's beliefs about the

importance of beauty and their insecurity.

Interpretation of Data

The influence of Western Beauty Standards to the respondents in terms of

interest, lifestyle, daily habits, and eating behaviors as well as the factors that influence

the respondent’s perception of beauty were obtained using the four-point Likert Scale

Questionnaire with 4 = Strongly Agree (SA), 3 = Agree (A), 2 = Disagree (D) and 1 =

Strongly Disagree (SD). The respondents were asked to provide their opinion on 20

statements regarding their perceptions towards the impact of Western Beauty Standards

to the latter components.

A. Do Western Beauty Standards influence the respondents? In terms of:

I. Interest

No. Weighted Mean Verbal Interpretation

1 2.96 Agree
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2 2.77 Agree

3 3.15 Agree

4 2.58 Disagree

5 3.24 Agree

Table No. 36 Summary of Weighted Mean for every statement in I. Interest

The first set (A) elicited the respondent’s experiences when it comes to their

personal interests which may have been influenced by Western Beauty Standards as

shown in Table. In this set, the highest weighted mean, 3.24, is in Statement 5 which

indicates that Western Beauty Standards have influenced the standards of the society

when it comes to women’s interests and hobbies.31 out of 90 strongly agreed and 53 out

of 90 agreed. This implies that the Western Beauty Standards have embodied societal

standards when it comes to people’s interests and hobbies. On the other hand, the lowest

weighted mean, 2.58 is in Statement 4 which states that the respondents have pursued a

particular interest inclined with Western Beauty Standards. 11 out of 90 strongly

disagreed while 34 out of 90 disagreed. This means that Western Beauty Standards do not

quite influence the pursuance of one’s interest.

II. Daily Habits


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No. Weighted Mean Verbal Interpretation

1 2.55 Disagree

2 2.64 Agree

3 2.51 Disagree

4 2.64 Agree

5 2.59 Disagree

Table No. 37 Summary of Weighted Mean for every statement in II. Daily Habits

The second set (B) evoked the respondent’s experiences when it comes to their

daily habits which may have been influenced by Western Beauty Standards as shown in

Table no. 37. In this set, the highest weighted mean, 2.64, is in both Statements 2 and 4.

The second statement indicates that the respondent constantly affiliates in Social Media

content which features Western Ideals that then leads them to compare themselves to

it.20 out of 90 strongly agreed and 30 out of 90 agreed. This implies that constant

exposure to Western media may cause individuals to compare themselves to what they

see. On the other hand, Statement 4 specifies that the respondent is often pressured to

conform with Western Beauty Standards in their daily life. 16 out of 90 strongly agreed

and 34 out of 90 agreed. This suggests that being considered as “Idealistic” is considered
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as an achievement one is pressured to reach. On the contrary, the lowest weighted mean,

2.51, is in Statement 3 which states the fondness of the respondent’s in looking out for

Western Beauty Content. 14 out of 65 strongly disagreed while 31 out of 65 disagreed.

This means that content about Western Beauty is not quite part of one’s daily habit.

III. Lifestyle

No. Weighted Mean Verbal Interpretation

1 2.93 Agree

2 2.92 Agree

3 3.43 Agree

4 2.71 Agree

5 2.64 Agree

Table No. 38 Summary of Weighted Mean for every statement in III. Lifestyle

The third set (C) elicited the respondent’s experiences in terms of their personal

lifestyle which may have been influenced by Western Beauty Standards as shown in

Table. In this set, the highest weighted mean, 3.43, is in Statement 3 which indicates that

the respondent adheres to certain measures (eg. Fashion style, morning routine) necessary

for their self-acceptance and esteem. 13 out of 90 strongly agreed and 55 out of 90
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agreed. This suggests that an individual’s self-esteem and acceptance can only be

redeemed once they have achieved societal standards. On the contrary, the lowest

weighted mean, 2.64, is in Statement 5 which states that Western Beauty Standards have

influenced the way the respondents priorities their personal wellness. 8 out of 90 strongly

disagreed while 28 out of 65 disagreed. This implies that although Western Beauty

Standards may have affected people’s lifestyle in both negative and positive ways, it did

not particularly influence their priorities in life.

IV. Eating Habits

No. Weighted Mean Verbal Interpretation

1 2.12 Disagree

2 2.46 Disagree

3 2.28 Disagree

4 2.47 Disagree

5 2.47 Disagree
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Table No. 39 Summary of Weighted Mean for every statement in IV. Eating
Habits

The fourth set (D) elicited the respondent’s experiences in terms of their personal

eating habits which may have been influenced by Western Beauty Standards as shown in

Table. In this set, the highest weighted mean, 2.47, is in Statement 4 and 5. Statement 4

indicates that the respondents have had specific meals in pursuit of Western Beauty

Standards. 11 out of 90 strongly agreed and 34 out of 90 agreed. Every statement on the

fourth set has a weighted mean below 2.61, this suggests that Western Beauty Standards

may have been have had an impact on an adolescent’s eating attitude, but this impact is

not quite as large as the preceding terms.

B. What are the factors that influence the respondent’s perspective of

beauty? In terms of:

I. Peers

No. Weighted Mean Verbal Interpretation

1 3.06 Agree

2 3.01 Agree

3 3.21 Agree

4 3.21 Agree
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5 2.96 Agree

Table No. 40 Summary of Weighted Mean for every statement in I. Peers

The first set (A) elicited the respondent’s perception towards beauty in terms of

the influence of peers as shown in Table. In this set, the highest weighted mean, 3.21, is

in Statement 3 and 4. The third statement specifies that social acceptance and popularity

between peer groups influence the respondent’s perception towards beauty.26 out of 90

strongly agreed while 44 out of 90 agreed. This reveals that one’s perception toward

beauty is highly influenced by their surrounding peers. Meanwhile, Statement 4 indicates

that adolescents often compare themselves to peers in terms of physical appearance in

which impacts their body image and self-esteem. 42 out of 90 strongly agreed and 37 out

of 90 agreed. This suggests that an individual’s self-esteem and body image is influenced

by the comparison of physical appearances towards peers. On the contrary, the lowest

weighted mean, 3.06, in Statement 5 which states that peer groups enforce certain beauty

ideals and how it plays a role in shaping adolescents’ belief about the significance of

physical appearance. 6 out of 90 strongly disagreed while 16 out of 90 disagreed.

II. Social Media

No. Weighted Mean Verbal Interpretation

1 3.3 Agree

2 2.72 Agree
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3 3.22 Agree

4 3.36 Agree

5 3.02 Agree

Table No. 41 Summary of Weighted Mean for every statement in II. Social Media

The second set (B) elicited the respondent’s perception towards beauty influenced

by social media as shown in Table no. 41. In this set, the highest weighted mean, 3.36, is

in Statement 4 which indicates that self-perception in terms of appearance is affected by

the constant exposure of images of “perfect” bodies and faces seen on social media. 35

out of 90 strongly agreed and 45 out of 90 agreed. This implies that an individual’s body

image or self-perception is influenced by the constant exposure to content in which

perceives beauty as something unattainable. On the contrary, the lowest weighted mean,

3.12, is in Statement 2 which states that social media platforms that actively promote

beauty ideals pressure the respondents to conform to these standards.5 out of 90 strongly

disagreed while 15 out of 90 disagreed.

III. Family

No. Weighted Mean Verbal Interpretation


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1 3.14 Agree

2 2.77 Agree

3 3.15 Agree

4 3.2 Agree

5 3.26 Agree

Table No. 42 Summary of Weighted Mean for every statement in III. Family

The third set (C) evoked the respondent’s perception towards beauty influenced

by their own family as shown in Table 42. In this set, the highest weighted mean, 3.26, is

in Statement 5 which indicates that family values and attitudes towards physical

appearance play a role in shaping an adolescent’s belief in the significance of beauty and

their insecurities. 34 out of 90 strongly agreed and 48 out of 90 agreed. This implies that

an individual’s perception towards beauty is shaped by their family’s values and beliefs.

On the contrary, the lowest weighted mean, 2.77, is in Statement 2 which states that the

respondent’s physical insecurities have been caused by their relatives. 5 out of 90

strongly disagreed while 15 out of 90 disagreed. Although, majority of the respondents

agreed with this statement. This implies that physical insecurities of an individual may be

exhibited in family households.


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CHAPTER V

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMEDATIONS

Summary of Findings

The findings of the research conducted are as follows:

1. What are the demographics of the respondents?

1.1 Majority of the respondents were 15 years of age.

1.2 Most of the respondents were female.

1.3 Most of the respondents were in Grade 10.

2. Do Western Beauty Standards influence the respondents? In terms of:

2.1 Interest

2.1.1 The respondents agree with the statement “The Western beauty

standards have influenced my body image and self-esteem at a

young age.”

2.1.2 The respondents agree with the statement “The Western beauty

standards have influenced my interests, hobbies, and career

aspirations”

2.1.3 The respondents agree with the statement “I think social media

and peer pressure have played in shaping my life through the

perceptions of beauty.”
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2.1.4 The respondents disagree with the statement “I have pursued a

particular interest or activity because it was associated with

Western beauty standards.”

2.1.5 The respondents agree with the statement “I believe Western

beauty standards have influenced societal standards for mostly

women's interests and hobbies.”

2.2 Daily Habits

2.2.1 The respondents disagree with the statement “My daily habits are

shaped by the influence of Western Beauty and its media, as they

impact the person I am striving to become.”

2.2.2 The respondents agree with the statement “I spend too much time

on social media looking at certain individuals whom have the

Western beauty standards and often compare myself to these types

of people.”

2.2.3 The respondents disagree with the statement “I often watch and

look at Western Beauty content (eg. Beauty vlogs and Fashion

Pinterest)”

2.2.4 The respondents agree with the statement “I often feel pressure to

achieve the Western beauty standards in my daily life.”

2.2.5 The respondents disagree with the statement “I may have noticed

any changes in my daily habits as a result of increased awareness

and critique of Western beauty standards.”

2.3 Lifestyle
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2.3.1 The respondents agree with the statement “Western beauty

standards have influenced my lifestyle choices, such as clothing

style, hair, and behavior.”

2.3.2 The respondents agree with the statement “I balance my personal

preferences with societal expectations of beauty in my lifestyle.”

2.3.3 The respondents agree with the statement “I adhere to certain

beauty standards because it is necessary for my self-acceptance

and self-esteem. (eg. Fashion style and morning routine)”

2.3.4 The respondents agree with the statement “The negative effects of

Western Beauty standards, such as engaging in unhealthy exercise

habits, avoiding social interactions, and experiencing anxiety has

been incorporated in my lifestyle.”

2.3.5 The respondents agree with the statement “The influence of

Western beauty standards has affected the way I prioritize my

wellness in my daily life.”

2.4 Eating Behaviors

2.4.1 The respondents disagree with the statement “I engage in

practices associated with Western beauty standards, such as

avoiding certain foods.”

2.4.2 The respondents disagree with the statement “Negative physical

or psychological consequences may have happened, I once strived

to meet Western beauty standards through their eating habit

experience.”
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2.4.3 The respondents disagree with the statement “I once consumed

foods or drinks that are marketed as "low-fat," "sugar-free," or

"diet" in an effort to conform to Western beauty standards rather

than doing physical exercises.”

2.4.4 The respondents disagree with the statement “I’ve had specific

foods that I associated with the pursuit of Western Beauty Ideals.”

2.4.5 The respondents disagree with the statement “I have somewhat

altered my diet to achieve the Western beauty ideals.”

3. What are the factors that influence the respondent’s perspective of beauty? In

terms of:

3.1 Peers

3.1.1 The respondents agree with the statement “Adolescents' peers

influence their perception of physical attractiveness and beauty

standards.”

3.1.2 The respondents agree with the statement “Peer groups enforce

certain beauty ideals and create pressure to these standards.”

3.1.3 The respondents agree with the statement “Social acceptance and

popularity within peer groups influences the adolescent's

perception of beauty.”

3.1.4 The respondents agree with the statement “Adolescents compare

themselves to their peers in terms of physical appearance and

impacts this on their self-esteem and body image.”


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3.1.5 The respondents agree with the statement “Peer relationships play

a role in shaping an adolescent's beliefs about the importance of

physical appearance.”

3.2 Society

3.2.1 The respondents agree with the statement “The society’s standard

of beauty impact an adolescent's perception of their own

appearance.”

3.2.2 The respondents agree with the statement “The media’s portrayal

of beauty in the community’s affect an adolescent’s self-esteem

and confidence.”

3.2.3 The respondents agree with the statement “The toxic attitudes

prevalent in society can influence myself in understanding of what

is considered beautiful.”

3.2.4 The respondents agree with the statement “Cultural norms within

a community influence an adolescent's perspective on beauty

standards at a young age.”

3.2.5 The respondents agree with the statement “An exposure to diverse

communities and perspectives shape an adolescent's

understanding of beauty and its significance.”

3.3 Family

3.3.1 The respondents agree with the statement “An adolescent's

family's beauty standards and beliefs about physical appearance

influence their own perspective on beauty.”


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3.3.2 The respondents agree with the statement “My parents or siblings

causes my own physical insecurities.”

3.3.3 The respondents agree with the statement “The family

environment, including the presence or absence of criticism or

praise related to physical appearance, affect an adolescent's

perspective on beauty.”

3.3.4 The respondents agree with the statement “Generational

differences in beliefs about beauty within a family’s impact an

adolescent's understanding of beauty standards.”

3.3.5 The respondents agree with the statement “Family values and

attitudes towards physical appearance play in shaping an

adolescent's beliefs about the importance of beauty and their

insecurity.”

Conclusions

This study examined how Western media influenced 13–17-year-old teenagers'

perceptions of beauty standards and their well-being. The way media representations

influence youngsters' perceptions of beauty are seen in the psychological, social, and

cultural elements that are at work. In addition, this study chapter has highlighted the

importance of educating young people about critical awareness and media literacy in

order to help them navigate and resist the prevalent beauty standards promoted by

Western media. Important insights into the intricate relationships between Western media
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and the development of beauty standards among 13 to 17-year-old teens have been

gained through synthesizing the study's findings and implications.

The influence of Western beauty standards, affecting Filipino teenagers between the ages

of 13 and 17, impacts their interests, daily habits, eating behaviours, and overall lifestyle.

Positive effects can be observed based on our research findings, as some teens develop an

appreciation for self-care. However, most of the negative consequences of Western

beauty standards and media weigh much heavier and cannot be overlooked.

Western beauty standards have had an impact on societal ideals related to

women's interests and hobbies. Teens feel immense pressure to conform to unrealistic

beauty ideals leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, and body dissatisfaction. This supports

the dissertation conducted by Tadena, Kang, and Kim in 2020, entitled “The Influence of

Social Media Affinity on Eating attitudes and Body Dissatisfaction in Philippine

adolescents” which have concluded that affinity towards media and body dissatisfaction

are correlated. Similarly, this study suggests that Western media plays a role in one’s

development of body dissatisfaction.

Awareness of Western beauty standards has the potential to influence an

individual's daily habit. It has been revealed that teens constantly expose themselves to

Social media content which features Western Beauty Ideals, and leads them to compare

themselves to what they affiliate with. This supports the findings in the study, Body

image: past, present, and future body image (Cash T.F, 2014), which concludes that

social comparisons are is a factor in the development of body dissatisfaction among

adults, adolescents, and young children. Conforming with these beauty standards is
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considered as an achievement to these young adolescents. This then develops into social

pressure exhibited in their daily lives.

It is evident that Western beauty standards play a role in shaping certain habits

and practices. Teens adhere to measures necessary for self-acceptance and self-esteem,

such as adapting a fashion style or following a certain routine. This reveals that societal

standards influenced by Western beauty standards affects the lifestyle choices of Filipino

teens.

The influence of friends and peers on ideal beauty standards could be very

impactful to teens as they tend to acquire comparisons towards their peer groups. Body

image and self esteem is highly affected by comparisons of physical appearance and

social acceptance. Family households and their beliefs is also a factor substantial to an

individual’s perception of beauty. Family is an important aspect to an adolescent in

several factors including their mentality and perceptions towards something certain. The

study shows that through family beliefs, criticism, and values, and individual’ It is also

shown in the research that most of the respondents agree with the statements, which

implies that family has a major role in shaping an individual's self-perception toward

beauty.

This study supports other studies in the way that one could see how social media, peers,

and family affect the self-perception towards beauty of an adolescents. his opens the door

for future research and intervention strategies designed to encourage a healthier and more

inclusive perception of beauty among this vulnerable age group.


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Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are provided

for future research and practical interventions:

Future Research Recommendations:

a) Longitudinal studies: Conduct longitudinal research to monitor the long-term impact of

teenage exposure to Western media on their judgments of beauty standards and body

image. This would give important information on how long-lasting these impacts are and

how they affect outcomes for mental health.

b) Cultural context: Examine how cultural context affects the way Western media shapes

ideals of beauty. To comprehend how cultural influences combine with media exposure

to affect teenagers' opinions on beauty, compare the impacts across various cultural

contexts.

c) Media literacy interventions: Create and assess media literacy programs that help

young people develop their critical thinking and media literacy abilities. Investigate the

efficacy of programs that assist youth in examining, dissecting, and challenging the

exaggerated ideals of beauty propagated by Western media.

Practical Interventions and Recommendations

a) Parental and caregiver involvement: Encourage parents and other adults to talk with

teenagers about media messages and beauty standards. Promote candid conversations on
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media impacts and the significance of a positive body image. Give parents and other

adults in charge information and direction on how to handle the effect of Western media

on teens' conceptions of attractiveness. There are various steps that can be performed to

encourage a good body image and lower the prevalence of mental health illnesses related

to body dissatisfaction in teenagers. First and foremost, parents and educators should help

young people learn to love and accept themselves. This can be accomplished by

participating in workshops or sessions that emphasize enhancing self-worth and

confidence, recognizing individual uniqueness, and encouraging constructive self-talk.

b) School-based interventions: Implement comprehensive school-based initiatives that

promote body positivity, media literacy education, and self-esteem building. Develop

age-appropriate curriculum and workshops with educators that encourage teenagers to

think critically and to have a good body image.

c) Collaboration with media industry: Encourage cooperation between academics,

advocacy organizations, and the media business to advance fair media representations of

beauty. Encourage the use of various and accurate depictions of beauty in media aimed

towards teenagers. Encourage the implementation of industry standards and norms that

support inclusion and a healthy body image.

d) Peer support and community engagement: Organize community-based programs and

peer support groups to encourage young people to have a good sense of themselves and

their bodies. Encourage the creation of safe spaces where teenagers may talk about their

struggles, question conventional notions of beauty, and fortify their defences against the

damaging effects of Western media. The priority must be shifted away from maintaining

arbitrary beauty standards and toward encouraging diversity, healthy lifestyles, and
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acceptance of oneself. As a result, our teenagers' environments will be more welcoming

and supportive, which will eventually improve their mental health and overall well-being.

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