The Impact of Social Media Addiction on Body Image and Relationship Satisfaction in Young Adults

Abstract

In today’s digital world, social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Facebook expose us to an endless stream of content through reels, posts, and stories, shaping how we perceive ourselves and our relationships. This study investigates the impact of social media addiction on body self-image and relationship satisfaction among 152 young adults (18 to 25 years) from diverse states in India. The sample comprised 102 females, 49 males, and 1 non-binary participant, with 98 currently in romantic relationships and 54 with past romantic experiences. Using standardized tools, the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) assessed addictive behaviours related to social media, while the Body Self-Image Questionnaire - Short Form (BSIQ-SF) evaluated participants' perceptions of their body image, and the Burns Relationship Satisfaction Scale (RSAT) measured their satisfaction in romantic relationships. The results revealed no significant correlation between relationship satisfaction and body self-image (r = -0.029), or between relationship satisfaction and social media addiction (r = -0.011). However, a significant positive correlation was observed between social media addiction and body self-image (r = 0.267, p < .001), suggesting that higher levels of social media usage are linked to improved perceptions of one’s body image. These findings challenge conventional assumptions about the negative effects of social media on self- perception and highlight the complex dynamics at play. Future research should explore mediating factors such as self-esteem and cultural influences to deepen understanding of these relationships.