A self-assessment survey found that 84% of young Brazilians have already used editing apps to change their image. Target? They “adjust” to the beauty standards of social networks.

The search for the “perfect” image is not something innocent: it damages self-esteem and can even contribute to the development of a mental disorder. On the last day of the month that marks the Yellow September campaign, this is the 6th episode of Diversa+’s aDiversa podcast, airing this Friday (30).

ADiversa podcast guests discuss image distortion on social media — Photo: ND

The social media self-assessment episode “Noia” features psychiatrist Giulia Trindade and 15-year-old book photographer Gisele Soares.

Guest host is Taina Klok, social media analyst at Grupo ND. NDTV editor Murilo Mestriner fulfills the male quota and brings a different point of view to the discussion.

Unrealistic and unattainable standards

Social networks impose daily standards that go beyond beauty: a trendy mobile phone, current travel, series that everyone needs to watch … But the ones that are associated with the body itself hurt users the most.

According to Julia’s psychiatrist, striving to achieve a beauty standard is one of the factors that can trigger a mental disorder in self-image, which is more common in women and begins around the age of 14.

“When we post a photo on social media and it gets likes and comments, it creates a sense of well-being that is addictive because I want approval. In adolescence, it is even more intense,” he explained.

Despite the fact that networks testify to them, patterns have always existed. ADiversa host Luciana shared a childhood experience that must have happened to many girls: bullying because of their appearance.

“The boys acted very ugly: they gathered in the corridor, the girls went in the middle towards the class and put marks. It was terrible,” she said, who, while recounting the situation at home at the time, received approval, recognition and golden advice from her mother.

The Risks of the “Perfect Life”

Murilo also shared a personal experience that highlights the risks of wanting to be “within the standard”. He lost a lot of weight due to the injury and began to receive praise for his fitness. Phrases like “wow, how beautiful you are” became familiar to the journalist until he developed anorexia.

Social media analyst Mystery remembered another challenge: changing your personality to fit a mold that doesn’t represent who you are.

“I turned my hammocks into a different person. When I arrived here in Florianopolis, people said to me: “Wow, I thought you were so reserved, but you are a super happy girl.” Beautiful pictures are cool, but we are something more,” he said.

One of the psychiatrist’s tips to avoid problems is to carefully choose the people you follow on social networks.

Wave of body positivity

In recent years, a positive movement has been gaining momentum on social media: body positivity. Influencers show real, unedited recordings of their bodies to show that no one is perfect. Photographer Giselle has already felt the impact of this wave in the photo studio.

“Before, girls were asked to remove cellulite, narrow the waist, hide pimples … Today they don’t need any filter, they ask for the most natural photos,” he said.

As Luciana recalled, Instagram filters made people always look for the unreal aspect. Throughout the conversation, Giselle gives advice to those who want to feel good about their photos, but without editing.

about the podcast

The aDiversa podcast has weekly episodes posted on the Diversa+ page every Friday at 7am. Presented by ND+ editor Luciana Barros, the programs tackle the feminine universe in a light, casual way and with a hint of controversy.