A new study exposes the harmful effects of smartphone photo filters in relation to body image problems and mental health conditions, such as body dysmorphic disorder. This disorder has been classified as part of the obsessive-compulsive spectrum.
People with this disorder can spend hours obsessing over minor or nonexistent flaws in their appearance.
Some of the people living with body dysmorphic disorder have a history of unnecessary or repeated cosmetic surgery; hence it has been associated with obsessive-compulsive disorders, major depression, and suicidal tendencies.
Although the causes of this disorder are not clear, researchers think that several factors are at play, including genetics and neurobiological problems, such as a faulty processing of the neurotransmitter serotonin (also known as the hormone of happiness).
Furthermore, environmental factors can also influence the chances of developing the disorder. Life experiences, such as childhood trauma or personality traits, can influence risk.
Now, a new study written by researchers at the Boston Medical Center in Massachusetts (USA) suggests that there could be an additional risk factor: selfies.
How Snapchat Filters Can Affect Dysmorphia
In their article, the authors highlight the fact that the popularity of social media and the increasing access to filters in apps like Snapchat and Facetune have profound psychological effects.
“The pervasiveness of these leaked images can affect a person’s self-esteem, make one feel inadequate in a certain way in the real world, and can even act as a trigger and lead to body dysmorphic disorder,” writes Susruthi Rajanala, leader of the job.
Rajanala and her colleagues cite research showing that adolescent girls who manipulate their photos tend to be more concerned with their body image. In addition, adolescents with this disorder turn to social networks in search of aesthetic validation from others.
A survey cited by researchers found that in 2017, 55% of plastic surgeons treated people seeking to “improve their appearance on selfies .” Just 3 years ago, this proportion was 42%. It is only increasing.
“Selfie filters can make people lose touch with reality, creating the expectation that we should be perfect at all times,” explains Neelam Vashi, co-author of the study.
“A new phenomenon called Snapchat dysmorphia has appeared in which patients seek cosmetic surgery to help them look like the filtered versions of themselves, ” Vashi clarifies. “This can be especially damaging for adolescents and those with body dysmorphic disorder, and it is important that experts understand the implications of social media on body image to better treat and counsel our patients,” he adds.
In their article, the researchers warn that surgery is not recommended in these cases, as it can worsen the symptoms of the disorder. Instead, they suggest cognitive behavioral therapy and empathic interventions.
Reference: Photoshopping the selfie: Self photo editing and photo investment are associated with body dissatisfaction in adolescent girls. McLean, Paxton, Wertheim, Masters. International Journal of Eating Disorders. DOI: 10.1002 / eat.22449
Selfies — Living in the Era of Filtered Photographs. Susruthi Rajanala, BA1; Mayra BC Maymone; Neelam A. Vashi, JAMA Facial Plast Surg. Published online August 2, 2018. doi: 10.1001 / jamafacial.2018.0486
