Media and self-image : perceptions of both male and female young adults

Abstract

In our modern society, many use the media as a source of entertainment, as a means to form new relationships as well as to learn and share information across larger audiences. Conversely, such a fast evolving world does not come without its influences; how it could make or break one’s self perception through exposure to idealised media images or through attitudes and views brought about by social media platforms. The use of qualitative methodology was used throughout this study by means of open-ended interview questions, which allowed for a more wide-ranging understanding of the perceptions of the participants. Thematic analysis was then used to gather common themes and sub-themes that were obtained from the interviews. Throughout this study one can see how exposure to the media can elicit positive effects; however, it could also be an atmosphere that causes a great deal of stress for individuals. When one is exposed to a linear standard of what is considered to be the ideal, there might not always be favourable comparisons; one could easily fall into the trap of doubting their overall self-image. This doubt could also, in turn, give rise to body-image dissatisfaction that may later develop even further into more harmful disorders such as anorexia, bulimia or body dysmorphia. Moreover, this study made use of a small sample of participants, and thus cannot be an adequate representation of the Maltese cohort.