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Between Screens and Self-Perception: The Role of Gender and Digital Media Use in Shaping Body Esteem and Self-Esteem Among Adolescents

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Adolescence is a critical period for identity development and self-perception, increasingly shaped by digital media. This study aimed to examine how gender, body mass index (BMI), and Internet use influence body esteem and global self-esteem among adolescents aged 15-18 years old, with particular focus on the psychological impact of digital exposure. METHODS: A three-wave online study was conducted using the Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) technique. The final sample consisted of 500 Polish adolescents (251 girls, 249 boys). Participants completed the Body Esteem Scale (BES) and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES) at three time points. The study explored gender differences, the role of BMI, and the impact of time spent online. RESULTS: < 0.01), with the most pronounced effects among girls using the Internet for more than 4 h daily. Regression analyses identified gender and Internet use as significant predictors of self-perception, while BMI did not. CONCLUSIONS: Digital media use, particularly prolonged exposure, appears to be a stronger predictor of adolescent self-perception than objective body measures such as BMI. Girls are especially vulnerable to its adverse effects on both body esteem and global self-esteem. These findings underscore the need for gender-sensitive interventions focused on media literacy, emotional resilience, and healthy digital habits among adolescents.

Source: Children

DOI: 10.3390/children12091143

Authors: Mateusz Grajek, Tomasz Jurys, Mateusz Rozmiarek

Institution: Medical University of Silesia

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Technology on Adolescents

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896