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Abstract
A large body of literature has demonstrated mass media effects on body image and disordered
eating. More recently, research in this area has turned to 'new' forms of media, such
as the Internet, and particularly Social Networking Sites (SNSs). A systematic search
for peer-reviewed articles on SNS use and body image and eating disorders resulted
in 20 studies meeting specific inclusion criteria. As a whole, these articles demonstrated
that use of SNSs is associated with body image and disordered eating. Specific SNS
activities, such as viewing and uploading photos and seeking negative feedback via
status updates, were identified as particularly problematic. A small number of studies
also addressed underlying processes and found that appearance-based social comparison
mediated the relationship between SNS use and body image and eating concerns. Gender
was not found to be a moderating factor. It was concluded that, although there is
a good deal of correlational research supporting the maladaptive effect of SNS use
on body image and disordered eating, more longitudinal and experimental studies are
needed.