By Veronica, Local Resident and Avid TikTok User

As a 23-year-old who frequently immerses herself in the vibrant world of TikTok, I've marvelled at the creativity, humour, and sense of connection that this platform brings to my life. TikTok offers a unique space for self-expression and community-building, from dance crazes to comedic skits. However, beneath the surface of its catchy tunes and engaging visuals lies an issue gaining attention for its potential impact on mental health—body image.

Recent research from UNSW Sydney has shed light on the potential dangers of consuming short-form social media content that sets unrealistic beauty standards. The study suggests that the alluring veneer of TikTok videos portraying unattainable appearances might affect how young women perceive their bodies. In a culture obsessed with narrow definitions of beauty that are constantly changing —it's hardly surprising that such content can breed discontentment.

The study uncovered that even a mere glimpse of appearance-ideal content is enough to cast a shadow on body image. As someone who has scrolled through countless videos on TikTok, I understand the allure of perfection often showcased. Yet, this desire to meet unattainable standards can lead to negative mood shifts and self-objectification. In this phenomenon, we begin to see ourselves through the lens of our appearance rather than as multifaceted individuals.

With its rapid-fire delivery of content, TikTok can magnify the pressure to conform to appearance ideals. Whether participating in dance trends or trying out beauty hacks, the subtext of looking a certain way can be hard to escape. As the study's lead author, Jade Gurtala, points out, "Total exposure time was only like a minute and a half, and we found that was enough to have harmful impacts."

One aspect of this issue that has captured my attention is the rise of editing and enhancements. As video content grows increasingly sophisticated, the line between reality and fantasy becomes increasingly blurred. While the thrill of experimenting with filters and effects can be undeniable, it's crucial to acknowledge that what we're seeing may not always reflect authenticity. 

In my day-to-day experience, I encounter countless videos wherein individuals edit their bodies and lifestyles to project the elusive 'perfect' image. Moreover, I've even encountered deep fakes powered by AI technology, where world leaders, celebrities, and even the public are seamlessly manipulated to perform dances and utter statements that never occurred. Although these instances may offer amusement and humour on the surface, the underlying implications of such technology are undeniably disconcerting. In an era of technological progress, this distinction between genuine and manipulated content becomes particularly paramount within video content, as viewers may perceive unedited appearances through different lenses.

This research serves as a reminder that social media is not an isolated realm; it has implications for our mental health and well-being. The study participants reported spending two to three hours on social media daily—time that, when spent predominantly on appearance-focused content, can inadvertently fuel feelings of inadequacy. As an active user of TikTok, this finding compelled me to reflect on my content consumption habits.

However, the study doesn't just highlight a problem—it also presents potential solutions. By diversifying the content we consume and engaging with media literacy guides, we can equip ourselves with tools to navigate the social media landscape more thoughtfully. As someone who values the connections I've made through TikTok, I believe that harnessing this platform's positive aspects while being conscious of its potential pitfalls is key.

The rise of body positivity and self-acceptance movements within social media indicates that change is possible. By spotlighting diverse and unedited bodies, we can begin to counteract the pervasive beauty ideals that often dominate our feeds. 

As Dr Jasmine Fardouly, the study's senior author, mentions, "It’s important to update these educational body intervention programmes given the emerging evidence around the negative impacts of appearance-ideal video content."

TikTok has undoubtedly transformed the way we engage with content and each other. Let's ensure that as we dance through its virtual corridors, we do so with an awareness of its potential effects on our mental health. Together, we can redefine what it means to engage with social media in a way that empowers, uplifts, and enriches our lives.