Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background:With the expanding opportunities for digital self-expression on social media, approaches to selfenhancement have also evolved.Photo filters enable the creation of images that extend well beyond the effects achievable with makeup or even plastic surgery.At the same time, persistent preoccupation with cosmetic concerns and constant comparison with unrealistic ideals may become pathological, as exemplified by body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).BDD is considered a major contraindication for aesthetic surgery and is characterized by a pathological preoccupation with appearance, attentional and evaluative biases toward one's own physical features, and the fact that these concerns cannot be "resolved" by surgical intervention.Accordingly, "red flags" related to unrealistic expectations shaped by digital photofilter manipulation of appearance should be recognized by practitioners.In this study, we sought to investigate the so-called phenomenon of "Snapchat dysmorphia" as a potential new disease entity by examining the associations between social media use, photo-filter application, and symptoms of BDD. Material and methods:A total of N = 228 healthy participants completed online questionnaires.Social media and photo filter use, including self-reported motivations for filter application, were assessed.In addition, BDD symptomsspecifically perceived disfigurement, emotional burden, preoccupation with a potential flaw, and frequency of checking behavior-were measured according to current diagnostic criteria for BDD.Correlation and linear regression analyses were conducted using R statistical software. Results:We identified both overlaps and distinctions between BDD symptoms and the use of social media and photo filters.On the one hand, BDD symptoms appeared to be largely independent of social media engagement or photo filter use.On the other hand, the frequency of checking behavior was associated with both BDD symptomatology and social media/filter use.Furthermore, our analyses indicated that
Source: Innovative Surgical Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,130
OpenAlex ID: W7152968192
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: