#Instagram : an exploration of the relationship between the use of Instagram and eating attitudes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore Instagram Use, focusing on Intensity of Use, Active Use (AU) and Passive Use (PU), and its relationship with Eating Attitudes among young adults in the local context. Furthermore, differences based on gender and age among Instagram Use and Eating Attitudes were explored. These were explored through a quantitative approach and convenience sampling using an online questionnaire distributed through social media which gathered 110 valid responses from participants aged between 18 and 25 years who are Instagram users. Data was analysed using the Spearman Correlation Coefficient, to explore relationships, and the Kruskal-Wallis test, to assess for differences. The findings indicated that there is a relationship between Intensity of Instagram Use, and both Active Instagram Use and Passive Instagram Use. Moreover, Active Instagram Use and Passive Instagram Use were also found to be related. Correlations between Eating Attitudes and Intensity of Instagram Use, Active Instagram Use, and Passive Instagram use were not found to be significant. Furthermore, no differences based on gender and age among Instagram Use and Eating Attitudes were found. These findings have implications for both social networking site (SNS) users, as well as professionals in the social sciences who provide psychoeducation and deal with psychological disturbances, to be aware of SNS usage patterns and take a more critical approach when considering its influence as well as consider other factors which may be at play. Further research addressing the recommendations and limitations outlined in this study is necessary to enhance the understanding of the ever-growing use of social media and its influences.