INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON BODY IMAGE PERCEPTION AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF A MEDICAL COLLEGE IN PUDUCHERRY: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Body image perception plays a vital role in an individual’s psychological wellbeing and self-identity. Social media exposure, sociocultural influences, and psychological factors may significantly affect body image and self-esteem, particularly among medical students who are exposed to academic stress and peer pressure. Hence, the present study was conducted to assess the influence of social media on body image perception among undergraduate medical students. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 370 undergraduate medical students in a private medical college in Puducherry from October to December 2020. Data were collected through a pretested semi-structured questionnaire administered via Google Forms after obtaining informed consent. Body image perception was assessed using the Body Image Self-Assessment Questionnaire developed by Szuch, while self esteem was measured using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Chi square test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were used to assess associations and correlations, respectively, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among the 370 participants, 57% were partially satisfied with their body image, 24.6% were highly satisfied and 18.4% were dissatisfied. Low self-esteem was observed among 22% of participants. Significant associations were found between body image perception and self-esteem with age, residence and BMI (p<0.05). Lower self-esteem and greater body image dissatisfaction were more common among students aged 21–22 years, day scholars and overweight/obese participants. A statistically significant association was observed between body image perception and self-esteem (p=0.001). Pearson’s correlation analysis showed a strong positive correlation between hours spent on social media and body image perception (r=0.4). Conclusion: The study demonstrates a significant relationship between social media usage, body image perception and self-esteem among medical students. Increased social media exposure and higher BMI were associated with poorer body image perception and lower self-esteem, highlighting the need for mental health support, counselling and awareness programs promoting healthy body image and responsible social media use among young adults.