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Harmful content on TikTok: 5 tips for Gen Z to overcome body image issues

Understanding the role of TikTok in creating a false perception of body image in Gen Z

The most common 'body image' videos on TikTok overwhelmingly state that weight loss and slimness are attainable and desirable for all. TikTok is a major force in the lives of Gen Z, perpetuating harmful weight stigma and diet culture. It's no surprise that the rise of social media coincides with the fact that eating disorders are also skyrocketing.

Issues such as negative body image are most likely due to the wide dissemination of diet culture topics on social media, which is an important source of information for many children, adolescents, and young adults. Unfortunately, TikTok is particularly popular with Gen Z, and about 40 per cent of users are between 16 and 24 years old.

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Role of TikTok in false body perception

Videos promoting weight loss or attractive influencers can appear on a person's 'For You Page' even if a person is not following the creator. On the other hand, TikTok also offers girls and young women the opportunity to interact with body-positive content.

​TikTok also has indirect effects by increasing upward comparison of appearance and monitoring of the body, which in turn increases body dissatisfaction. A TikTok user says, "I used to have horrible body image issues, had a general eating disorder (shameful eating, excessive fasting), but refusing to look at TikTok or Instagram has completely reversed it."

Every day, millions of teens and young adults are fed content on TikTok that paints a very unrealistic and inaccurate picture of food, nutrition and health," said Lizzy Pope, associate professor and director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics at UVM.  

5 tips to overcome body image issues

1. Adhere to body neutrality

Body neutrality places acceptance of one's body at the center of thought rather than radical affection.

2. A reality check

It's important for Gen z to know how digital manipulation is done on media and to educate them on the use of filters to create certain types of images.

3. Focus on your unique attributes                                             

We all have our fair share of strengths and weaknesses, and our imperfections make us unique. A user shared, "Words to live by, from the awe-inspiring Emma Thompson"

4. Be mindful of what you feed your teen's mind

Teenagers are sensitive and extremely vulnerable at this stage of their lives, so it is a must for parents to be mindful when talking to them.

5. Set healthy boundaries                                                             

Ditch diets and cosmetic surgery and focus on what makes you feel good.