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The dangers of the rabbit hole: Reflections on social media as a portal into a distorted world of edited bodies and eating disorder risk and the role of algorithms.

Author
Abstract
:

The relationship between social media usage and body image has been well-established in the literature; however, social media companies' use of algorithms may intensify this association, as algorithms provide viewers with personalized content that is often more extreme, less monitored, and designed to keep users engaged for longer periods of time. This article details the recent media coverage of algorithms, revelations by former social media employees regarding the problematic usage of algorithms, and revelations that social media companies are aware of the harm posed by their implementation of algorithms, particularly for young, vulnerable users. We provide recommendations for influencers, educators, researchers, clinicians, parents, and users, and conclude that it is ultimately the responsibility of the social media corporations to protect and enhance the well-being of their users.

Year of Publication
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2022
Journal
:
Body image
Volume
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41
Number of Pages
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292-297
ISSN Number
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1740-1445
URL
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https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1740-1445(22)00063-8
DOI
:
10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.03.007
Short Title
:
Body Image
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