Body Image: Social Media’s Influence after the COVID-19 Pandemic in Young Male Adults | A Case Study
Date of Award
Summer 6-28-2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Exercise Science
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Dr. Brenda Davies
Abstract
This case study will explore the impact of social media on body image through the COVID-19 pandemic period. The qualitative approach investigates a social media user’s perception of standards established by present times and their narrative of how they internalize or deny its influence on body image. Twelve participants will be recruited from a local commercialized gym in Orange County, Southern California. Individual interviews will be gathered using open-ended questions pertaining to their body image while using social media. Feedback from participants will provide insight to the methods of communications that appeal or deter internalization of health practices on digital platforms. Data will be analyzed using qualitative techniques for categorizing themes and subthemes that highlight transition points or reinforcement concepts of body image. Healthcare practitioners can incorporate the findings to bridge the gap with patients and clients. Through the collection of narratives, theoretical frameworks can be established for implementing coping strategies to remedy body image and improving communication of scientific literature to tangible applications.